Category Archives: Uncategorized

Apr8

Find a Rainbow

Posted on by
Find a Rainbow

April 3 is National Find a Rainbow Day so this week our unit is filled with COLOR! Each of our sensory boxes were filled with rainbows. Our fine motor groups made colorful rainbow crafts and the language group made an edible rainbow! It was a fabulous week and we had a blast!

 

 

 

 

 

SENSORY GROUP

We were pretty pleased with the way our rainbow umbrella turned out! We recycled our little cloud costume from a couple of weeks ago, then added some colorful chenille stems and beads. It was very eye catching and the students loved it.

 

 

 

Recognize and respond to one type of sensory stimuli is a science access point.

 

 

 

 

The students were intrigued with the rainbow projected by this rainbow light (thanks Ms. Kim). The rainbow could also be seen when they placed their hands under the light. This was a hit! We also recorded a version of Somewhere Over the Rainbow on a voice output device to add to the experience.

 

Recognize sources of light is a science access point.

 

 

 

 

We put some small chenille stems into this box of rainbow pasta. Besides stringing the pasta on the chenille stems, the students also enjoyed the fun sounds the pasta made when swirled around.

 

 

 

Recognize when an object is added to or taken away from a situation is a math access point.

 

 

 

 

Letter R’s were found buried in our rainbow beans. We used neon food coloring which made these beans especially bright and colorful.

 

 

 

Match objects by an observable property such as size, shape, or color is a science access point.

 

 

 

 

Lots of rainbow colored items were found in this box. There was one big and two little slinkys, a couple of plush toys, and some accordion tubes which were a HUGE hit!

 

 

 

Recognize that pushing and pulling moves an object is a science access point.

 

 

 

 

The students also had  fun with the funnel and spoon we put into our rainbow rice. They were pretty fascinated watching the rice stream down out of the funnel! We did find that a smaller spoon worked best to prevent the funnel from getting clogged.

 

Track a falling object is a science access point.

 

 

 

 

Shaving cream clouds surrounded a laminated rainbow in our messy play—-it made for a really eye catching tray!

 

 

 

 

Apply a push to move an object is a science access point.

 

 

 

 

We used Crayola bath color drops to make our water colorful this week. Each class had different colored water which added to the fun. Even more color could be found with multi-colored foam letters that spelled out the word RAINBOW.

 

 

The science access point recognize objects in the environment, can be addressed here.

 

 

 

 

Bath and Body Works rain kissed leaves was the perfect scent for unit on rainbows. It had a nice soft scent that the students really liked whether applied to hands or behind ears!

 

 

 

Recognize one or more external body parts is a science access point.

 

 

 

 

FINE MOTOR GROUP

On Tuesday we used crepe paper streamers to make rainbows.

Using communication symbols, each student chose a color.

 

 

 

 

 

Identify objects by one observable property, such as color, is a science access point.

 

 

 

 

Then they started tearing strips from the streamers—–they needed to tear enough pieces to share with their friends! This is a great activity for strengthening pre-scissor skills.

 

 

Recognize a change in the appearance of an object is a science access point.

 

 

 

Paint brushes were used to spread glue around  a cloud shape we just free form cut from poster board so each one ended up being a little different.

 

 

 

Apply a push to move an object is a science access point.

 

 

 

 

To make the clouds really fluffy some fiberfill stuffing was placed on top. The students were pretty intrigued with its texture!

 

 

 

 

Recognize when an object is added to a situation is a math access point.

 

 

 

 

The adults taped the paper streamers to the back of the clouds, but the students helped “pat” them DOWN.

Recognize a movement that reflects a spatial relationship, such as up and down is a math access point.

 

 

 

 

 

TA DA!

We found a rainbow!!!!!

 

 

 

 

On Wednesday the students made rainbows with coffee filters.

First, using communication symbols,  the students identified the shape of their coffee filter.

Recognize an object with a two-dimensional shape is a math access point.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Then they began coloring their coffee filters with water color markers. We encouraged them to use LOTS of different colors.

The science access point identify objects by one observable property, such as color, can be addressed here.

 

 

 

 

Then they sprayed their coffee filters with water and “scrunched” them up to spread the color around.

They had fun with this part 🙂

 

 

 

Recognize a change in the appearance of an object is a science access point.

 

 

 

 

TA DA!

 

 

 

 

 

 

We found a rainbow!

 

 

 

Then we found MORE rainbows……..

how cool is that!!!!!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

LANGUAGE GROUP

We brought back a food activity that we’ve done before in the past: edible paint on bread! Perfect for a unit on rainbows! We didn’t have a recipe this week since this activity is really easy to put together.  Really all you need is milk, food coloring, food safe paintbrushes, white bread, and creativity.

We started out by having each student choose decide which color they wanted to mix. Each student was presented with 2 colors to choose from.  Then they communicated “stir” on their communication boards.

 

 

 

 

 

 

We watched the color of the milk turn from white to something colorful!  We did this for 6 different colors.

 

 

 

 

 

Recognize a change in the appearance of an object is a science access point.

 

 

 

 

We counted out how many friends we had so that we could pass out paper plates and white bread.

Associate quantities with number names is a math access point.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Once our “paint” was ready, each student had to request what color they wanted using their communication boards.  Teachers helped when students needed it by modeling “want __color__” for the students to imitate.

 

We had so many colorful creations!

 

 

 

 

 

Students had to indicate they were “all done” using their communication boards when they were finished painting.

Finally, students got to eat their rainbows! YUM!!!!

 

 

 

 

 

Wow, this had to be our most colorful week ever!

Join us again next time for more fun and learning—–Group by Group!

 

Feb4

Ancient Myths and Legends

Posted on by
Ancient Myths and Legends

This week we decided to take a look at some of the characters of ancient myths and legends around the world. The sensory groups explored boxes dedicated to different characters. The fine motor groups made some inspired headdresses and the language group made a not so mythical snack!

 

 

 

 

SENSORY GROUP

Our starry night umbrella was very eye catching and worthy of Nott the Norse goddess of the night! With some twinkle lights, a moon,  and silver stars this really captured the students interest.

 

 

 

The science access points recognize that there are many stars in the sky and recognize a full moon as a circle can be addressed here.

 

 

 

 

Zeus is associated with weather—-especially thunderstorms. In this box, we put a fan for wind, a fiber optic toy for lighting, a rainstick, and a SUPER COOL thunder tube! This is the first time we got to use the thunder tube and it really did sound like the rumbling sounds of thunder. This box was a hit!

 

 

Recognize and respond to different types of sensory stimuli is a science access point.

 

 

 

 

With glitter and sequins which made our play dough even more eye catching, the students used a butterfly shaped cookie cutter to make colorful wings like those of Egyptian goddess Isis.

 

 

 

 

The science access point recognize that the appearance of an object or material has changed, is addressed here.

 

 

 

 

In addition to a couple of ancient Egyptian figures, there were some pyramids, a rake, and 2 giant carrots in our play dirt box dedicated to Osiris who supposedly taught the world about farming. The play dirt feels similar to kinetic sand and the students had lots of fun with it.

 

 

Recognize that pushing and pulling an object makes it move, is a science access point.

 

 

 

 

 

We think Venus would be tickled with all the hearts and valentines to discover in this box. There was red and white paper shred,  heart beads, red bows, a valentine bear, and lots of other heart shaped items. Lots to explore and discover!

 

 

The math access point recognize similarities and differences in the size of objects is a math access point.

 

 

 

 

Yellow food coloring and gold glitter made our oobleck dedicated to Apollo pretty “sunny” this week.

 

 

 

 

The science access point track objects in motion can be addressed here.

 

 

 

 

Since Sedna was an Inuit sea goddess, we put some animals that might be seen around the arctic ocean regions. The students were able to scoop out toy animals such as a whale and walrus.

We also included a measuring cup for scooping fun.

 

The science access point recognize objects related to science by name, such as animal, can be addressed here.

 

 

 

 

Thor was associated with lots of different things including the oak tree so we used Bath and BodyWorks oak scent for our water this week. Since we didn’t have a matching lotion, we used their mahogany scent which we figured was close enough—-both truly heroic scents 🙂

 

 

Recognize one or more external body parts is a science access point.

 

 

 

 

FINE MOTOR SKILLS

On Tuesday we made headdresses inspired by Venus. We found the supplies on the give away table—–one man’s trash is another’s treasure 🙂

We started by identifying the color of supplies using communication symbols.

 

 

 

 

Identify objects by one observable property, such as color, is a science access point.

 

 

 

 

 

Next, we cut pieces of bulletin board trim using switch operated scissors or paper trimmers.

 

 

 

 

 

Recognize the appearance of an object has changed is a science access point.

 

 

 

 

 

Then the students glued a large heart on to their paper strip.

 

 

 

 

 

The math access point recognize an object with a two-dimensional shape can be addressed here.

 

 

 

 

 

Ta DA!

We are spreading the love!

 

 

 

 

On Wednesday we made headdresses inspired by those worn by the ancient greeks and romans.

First the students identified the color of the leaves using communication symbols.

Identify objects by one observable property, such as color, is a science access point.

Then they also chose how many leaves they were going to put on their headdress.

Associate quantities with number names is a math access point.

 

 

 

 

 

The students twisted paper to make “grapevines”. Some of them could do this independently but most needed a little help. It was a great activity for bilateral coordination!

The science access point recognize the appearance of an object has changed is addressed here.

 

 

 

 

 

The students squeezed glue on to their leaves and then glued them DOWN on their grapevines.

 

 

 

 

 

Recognize a movement that reflects a spatial relationship, such as up and down, is a math access point.

 

 

 

 

 

Ta—- toga—- DA!

 

 

 

 

 

Our students are legendary!

 

 

 

 

 

LANGUAGE GROUP

Since Osiris was a god who helped man learn to farm, we decided to make a smoothie made with ingredients that need to be farmed.  Here is the recipe we used: Let_s Make A Blueberry Spinach Smoothie.  Don’t let the ingredients trick you into thinking this isn’t going to be good!

We started out by putting some frozen blueberries into a blender.  Each of our students got to touch the bag.  They communicated that the bag felt COLD.  We talked about how we needed to use a measuring cup in order to measure out the blueberries.

Recognize objects or materials as warm or cold, is a science access point.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Next, we added some frozen bananas to the blender.  Our students had to request if they wanted to help by raising their hand or indicating “help” on their communication board.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

We added some baby spinach to the blender next.  This got a few funny looks, both from the students as well as the staff!

Milk and vanilla Greek yogurt were also added to the mix.

Recognize when an object is added to a situation, is a math access point.

 

 

 

 

Finally, we added some honey.  Each of our students got to taste test the honey before we put it in the blender.  We talked about how it tastes SWEET.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Our students took turns pressing the switch to activate the blender so we could blend all of the ingredients up.  We counted out how many cups we needed (thank you to grandma for showing the kiddos how many cups we needed!) and poured some for each student.

 

 

Associate quantities with number names is a math access point. Solve problems involving small quantities of objects or actions using language, such as enough, too much, or more is another math access point addressed here.

 

 

 

 

All the students and adults thought this smoothie was pretty delicious, despite the ingredients being so deceiving 🙂

YUM!!!!

 

 

 

 

 

Join us again next time for more fun and learning—–Group by Group!

Oct15

Colombia book

Posted on by
Colombia book

We are learning about the country Colombia this week!  This is the home country of one of our amazing teachers, Maria.  We learned a lot about this country including some things that are exported from there as well as all of the different types of habitats there are.  It seems like a VERY cool place and we’ve already asked Maria if we can travel there with her the next time she visits 🙂  Take a look and see what you can learn about Colombia!

 

 

 

 

Here is a link to the book: Let’s Learn About Colombia!

Oct8

We Love Charlie Brown!

Posted on by
We Love Charlie Brown!

The comic strip Peanuts first ran on October 2, 1950. So, this week it is all about Charlie Brown and his friends!  The sensory groups explored boxes related to some of the different characters in the comic strip. The fine motor groups made some colorful art projects and the language group made a Peanuts inspired treat.

 

 

 

 

SENSORY GROUP

We used plastic pine needles, a nod to the Charlie Brown Christmas special,  as the base of this box. Then we added some of the cartoon characters, a small Linus blanket, a laminated comic strip, a Great Pumpkin, and a voice output device with the theme song recorded on it!

 

Identify characters in a story is a language access point.

 

The Joe Cool sunglasses were a hit……

our students always rock a pair of sunglasses 🙂

 

 

 

 

 

This box contained chenille stems in the colors of Charlie Brown’s shirt. The students could bend them like the zig zags in his shirt.

Recognize a change in an object is a science access point.

 

 

 

 

 

In Snoopy’s box we put in some white Floam that the students could shape into clouds for a little laminated Red Baron to fly around in!

Recognize that the appearance of an object is a science access point that can be addressed here.

 

 

 

 

 

Linus’ blanket is SOFT and Schroeder’s piano is HARD. There were a variety of hard and soft items to compare and contrast in this box.

Match objects with similar observable properties, such as size, shape, color, or texture, is a science access point.

 

 

 

 

This box was dedicated to PigPen. We usually use coffee ground for anything that calls for dirt or soil but we had a little money to spend and bought this awesome clean play dirt from Beyond Play. This stuff is really cool and a lot like kinetic sand—-so you know we love it! We added some fun digging tools and a letter P cookie cutter. There was also a picture of the Peanuts characters to find at the bottom of the box.

Recognize that pushing and pulling an object makes it move is a science access point.

 

 

 

 

 

Everyone loves Charlie Brown’s Great Pumpkin tv special so we chose pumpkin puree for our messy play this week. YES, we have done this before and it is truly messy but definitely a  different texture for the students to explore.  Some of the students loved it—–others not so much 🙂 There was also a laminated pumpkin to decorate with the orange goo.

Apply a push to move an object is a science access point.

 

 

 

 

 

There were different sized letter P’s to scoop up in our water play this week. For scooping we included a measuring cup and sieve shovel.

Recognize differences is sizes of containers that hold liquids is a math access point.

 

 

 

 

 

Peppermint swirl from Bath and BodyWorks was the perfect scent for our lotion and water play. This was a really strong scent that really permeated the whole room! We definitely think Peppermint Patty would approve.

Recognize one or more external body parts.

 

 

 

 

 

FINE MOTOR GROUP

On Tuesday we borrowed an idea from http://whereimaginationgrows.com, it even came with the free printable silhouette we used—–how cool is that!

First we used communication symbols to identify the color of our paint this week.

Identify objects by one observable property, such as color, is a science access point.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

We watered down the paint a little bit to make it easier to spread and then the students started painting their sunsets.

 

 

 

Recognize that pushing and pulling an object makes it move is a science access point.

 

 

 

 

 

After they had finished painting, we helped the students glue down their silhouettes since copier paper was a little flimsy.

Recognize a change in a object is a science access point.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

TA DA!

 

 

 

 

Charlie Brown and Snoopy—–best friends forever!

 

 

 

 

 

On Wednesday we were inspired by the Great Pumpkin and made our own pumpkin Patch!

First identified the color of our pumpkins using communication symbols.

Identify objects by one observable property, such as color, is a science access point.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Then the students used a switch operated LadyBug marker to make leaves and vines on  the background. It was a true group effort and the students had a blast!!!!

 

 

 

 

Share objects with a partner is a science access point.

 

 

 

 

 

We put the poster up on the table and gave the students regular green markers to finish make even more vines.

Recognize a change in an object is a science access point.

 

 

 

 

 

Each student then planted a big craft foam pumpkin on to the poster by gluing it DOWN.

 

 

 

 

Recognize a movement that reflects a spatial relationship, such as up and down, is a math access point.

 

 

 

 

 

TA DA!

We are ready for the Great Pumpkin!

 

 

 

 

 

 

LANGUAGE GROUP

This week we made a yummy treat that we think the crew of Peanuts would enjoy.  Here is the recipe we used: Let_s Make The Great Pumpkin Mousse!

We started by putting the vanilla pudding mix and some cinnamon into a bowl.  We smelled the cinnamon and talked about how it smelled sweet.

 

 

Recognize and respond to different types of stimuli is a science access point.

 

 

 

 

 

Next, we put a can of evaporated milk into the bowl.  Our students had to request if they wanted to help turn on the mixer.  We talked about if we were DONE mixing or if we needed to mix it MORE.

 

 

Solve problems involving small quantities of objects or actions using language, such as enough, too much, or more, is a math access point.

 

 

 

 

 

After it was all mixed up, we put the pumpkin puree in.  We observed how the color changed from yellow to orange.

Recognize a change in an object is a science access point.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Then we added some whipped cream next and stirred it all up.

Recognize that pushing and pulling an object makes it move, is a science access point.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

We counted out the number of students and divvied up the pumpkin mousse.  We topped it with some more whipped cream and a bit of cinnamon and got down to the fun part—–TASTING!

After the students ate their pudding, they used communication symbols to tell us if they liked it or not.  The verdict was YUM!!!!

 

 

 

Thanks for joining us and come back again for more fun and learning——Group by Group!

Oct1

Johnny Appleseed

Posted on by
Johnny Appleseed

Johnny Appleseed Day is September 26 so we decided to learn a little more about him this week! Our sensory groups explored boxes that were all about apples. The fine motor groups made apple themed art projects and the language group made a yummy apple snack.

 

 

 

 

 

 

SENSORY GROUP

We turned one of our umbrellas into an apple tree this week and it was a total hit with the students! There were 3 different apples to find and a voice output with the song “Don’t sit under the apple tree with anyone else but me”—–an oldie but a goodie!

The math access point associate quantities with number names can be addressed here.

 

 

 

 

As we said, this umbrella tree really captured the students’ attention.

So we couldn’t resist adding a few more super cute photos 🙂

 

 

 

 

 

 

A is for APPLE——the students searched  for letter A’s in green rice with black bean “apple seeds”. There was also a map of his home state to find at the bottom of the box.

Identify objects by observable properties, such as shape, is a science access point.

 

 

 

 

 

Apples come in lots of different colors but mostly RED, YELLOW, or GREEN. In this box the students sorted colorful “apple” pompoms into matching plates.

The science access point identify objects by one observable property, such as color, and the math access point recognize objects with three-dimensional objects, such as balls (spheres) can be addressed here.

 

 

 

 

 

The students used apple shaped cookie cutters to make BIG and LITTLE apples in red moon sand. We didn’t actually have apple cookie cutters so we used the pumpkin cutters we had on hand since they are a pretty similar shape—–sometimes you just have to make do with what you have 🙂

 

Recognize similarities and differences in size of common objects is a math access point.

 

 

 

 

 

Apple seeds are kind of black and brown so we thought these small beans would work as a nice stand in for them. There was a little dish to fill and a measuring spoon for fun scooping practice.

 

 

The math access point recognize when an object or person is added to or is taken away from a situation, can be addressed here.

 

 

 

 

 

We added some green food coloring to shaving cream this week. We encouraged the students to draw apple shaped circles or straight line stems.

Recognize objects with two-dimensional shapes is a math access point.

 

 

 

 

 

Hands were rinsed in apple scented water with a floating plastic apple, watering can, scoop, and an apple shaped sponge. Lots of different things to interact with here and the students had a blast.

The math access point recognize differences in sizes of containers that hold liquids, can be addressed here.

 

 

 

 

The watering can was especially fun and

the students were fascinated by the streaming water!

 

 

 

 

 

Our apple scent this week was country apple from Bath and BodyWorks.

It was a pretty yummy scent that left our students smelling like delicious little apples 🙂

Recognize one or more external body parts is a science access point.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

FINE MOTOR GROUP

On ‘Tuesday we made apples using this template: apple

We started by identifying the color of our paper shred.

Identify objects by one observable property, such as color, is a science access point.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Next the students painted glue (watered down a little bit to make it easier to spread) with a sponge brush.

Recognize that pushing and pulling an object makes it move, is a science access point.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Then came the fun part—–dropping handfuls of paper shred onto their apples! They really liked this part.

Recognize a change in an object is a science access point.

 

 

 

 

 

A little green leaf was added and ………..Ta DA!

                                                                   Just delicious!

 

 

 

 

 

On Wednesday the students made apple trees. We used green plates from the Dollar Tree (a whole stack for $1, how can you beat that!) and leftover corrugated cardboard for the tree trunks. This was a really cheap craft—–and we like that 🙂

First the students identified the shape of the plates and the color of our “apple” pompoms

Recognize an object with a two-dimensional shape such as a circle, is a math access point.

 

The science access point identify objects by one observable property, such as color, is addressed here.

 

 

 

 

Then they practiced eye hand coordination skills by dipping red pompoms into glue and then gluing them onto their “trees”. Of course, we counted the number of apples on each tree!

 

The math access points recognize when an object is added to a situation and associate quantities with number names, can be addressed here.

 

 

 

 

 

Ta Da!

 

 

 

 

                                                        Look at our apple orchard!

 

 

 

 

LANGUAGE GROUP

This week we made our own applesauce!  We also learned a lot about patience since the food processor was acting up a bit during group.  Here is a link to the recipe we used: Let_s Make Cinnamon Applesauce

We started out by peeling the apples.  We got to use an apple peeler which was pretty cool to our students.  They helped us turn the handle to make the peeler work.

 

 

 

We found that the peeler also cored AND cut the apple so we got to skip that step 🙂

Recognize a change in an object is a science access point.

 

 

 

 

We checked out the string of apple peel!

Some of the students thought it was pretty fascinating but others weren’t quite so sure about it.

 

 

 

 

Next, we had to add some lemon juice.  Each of our students got to try a little taste of the lemon juice.  We talked about how it tasted SOUR.

 

 

Then we added some lemon juice to the food processor.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Our students helped turn the food processor on.  We found that we had to add a little bit of water to help get the mixture going.

Recognize a way to stop an object from moving is a science access point that can be addressed here.

 

 

 

 

 

We poured the mixture into a bowl.  Next, we added some sugar and cinnamon.  Our students smelled the cinnamon and we talked about how it smelled sweet.

We stirred everything up and voila!  No-cook applesauce!

 

The math access point solve problems involving quantities of objects or actions using language, such as enough, too much, or more, can be addressed here.

 

 

 

 

Yummy deliciousness

this was a hit 🙂

 

 

 

Hope you enjoyed learning a little bit about Johnny Appleseed.

Join us again next time for more fun and learning——Group by Group!

Sep24

On Old MacDonald’s Farm

Posted on by
On Old MacDonald’s Farm

September 16-23 is Farm Animal Awareness Week and we thought what a perfect time to do a unit on Old MacDonald! The sensory groups explored boxes with a variety of farm related tactile experiences. The fine motor groups used paint to create their art projects and the language group made yummy edible mud pies!

 

 

 

 

SENSORY GROUP

In a base of raffia “hay” we put a variety of farm related items including play animals, fruit, vegetables, and a toy tractor. We also included a colorful red bandana and a dog puppet that sang when its muzzle was pressed—–too cute!

Recognize a model of a real object is a science access point.

 

 

 

 

 

This box of corn contained the letters F, A, R, M for the students to find. Of course, they also had fun pushing their fingers and hands through the kernels. Visual and tactile discrimination skills can be addressed with this activity.

The science access point match objects by an observable property, such as shape, can be addressed here.

 

 

 

 

It was all contrast and compare with our fur and feather box! There were a variety of fake fur swatches along with some feather boas. A great opportunity to talk about which farm animals had fur and which had feathers. They made some great fashion statements also lol.

Sort objects by an observable property, such as texture, is a science access point.

 

 

 

 

 

We put some play food for the students to plant and harvest in our coffee grounds “dirt”. There were also pictures of fruit to find at the bottom of the box.

The science access points match plants that are the same and recognize that plants grow, can be addressed here.

 

 

 

 

 

Wheat flour was used  to make our play dough and this gave it a slightly grittier, more crumbly texture. Another interesting tactile experience!

We put in some farm animal cookie cutters (turkey, sheep, and duck) to add to the fun.

Recognize that pushing or pulling an object makes it move, is a science access point.

 

 

 

 

 

This week we put cocoa powder in the oobleck to make MUD. The students had fun helping our little foam piggy get a mud bath. It really smelled much better than the real thing too 🙂

Track objects in motion is a science access point.

 

 

 

 

Our duck pond contained 2 rubber ducks—–1 big and 1 small. There was also a measuring cup for scooping fun!

Recognize differences in size of common objects is a math access point.

 

 

 

 

 

A fruity scent seemed the perfect choice for a farm unit so we used Bath and BodyWorks pearberry scent this week.

Recognize and respond to one type of sensory stimuli is a science access point.

 

 

 

 

 

FINE MOTOR GROUP

On Tuesday the students made “hay” using a rolling pin wrapped with some rubber bands.

We started by discussing the color of our paint and asked the students to identify it using communication symbols.

Identify objects by one observable property, such as color, is a science access point.

 

 

 

 

 

The students needed to hold the rolling pin with both hands in order to make it roll properly—–great bilateral coordination practice!

Recognize that pushing and pulling an object makes it move, is a science access point.

 

 

 

 

 

To finish, they got to choose some farm animals (cut from the Ellison machine) to put on their pictures. Of course we  counted how many each student added!

Associate quantities with number names is a math access point.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Ta Da!

                                                                   E  I  E  I  O

 

 

 

 

 

On Wednesday the students used a craft foam tractor stamp. We hot glued a plastic thread spool to make it easier for them to hold.

First the students drew ACROSS lines on their paper using a pencil. These lines were the “furrows” in the field. They really did a great job with this!

Recognize the change in appearance of an object, is a science access point.

 

 

 

 

 

Then we discussed the color of our paint and asked the students to identify it using communication symbols.

Identify objects by one observable property, such as color, is a science access point.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Next the students stamped UP and DOWN to put 1 tractor on their fields.

Recognize a movement that reflects a spatial relationship is a math access point.

 

 

 

 

 

TA Da!

                                                         Look at our cute little farmers!

 

 

 

 

 

LANGUAGE GROUP

We made a very tasty dessert this week!  We made Animal Cracker Caramel Mud Pies.  Here is the recipe that we used: Let_s Make Animal Cracker Caramel Mud Pie

During the recipe, we focused on the following words that were located on each of our student’s cooking communication boards: make, put, turn, more, all done, like/don’t like.  Each week, these are the most frequently used words.  Other words located on the boards are fringe vocabulary words such as the different ingredients used as well as the utensils and appliances used.

We started by making our chocolate pudding.  Our students helped put the pudding mix and 2 cups of milk into a bowl.  Then they took turns pressing the wireless switch used to turn the mixer on.  Our students helped to indicate if we needed to mix MORE or if we’re ALL DONE.

Solve problems involving small quantities of objects or actions using language, such as enough, too much, or more, is a math access point.

 

 

 

 

Next, we melted the butter talked about how it changed from a solid to a liquid. We put our -already-crushed-up animal crackers in the butter and added some sugar.  Then we stirred it up and put it in the pan

Distinguish between water as a solid or liquid is a science access point.

 

 

 

 

Then we put cream cheese and powdered sugar into a bowl and mixed it up with the mixer, giving each student a turn.  We were SUPPOSED to add caramel to this part, but I missed that page so we added it at the end 🙂  You can do it any way you’d like!  We added some whipped cream and mixed it up again.

Solve simple problems involving putting together and taking apart small quantities of objects is a math access point.

 

 

 

 

 

We put that mixture on top of the animal cracker mix in the pan and added the chocolate pudding to the top.

Recognize when an object is added to a situation is a math access point.

 

 

 

 

A little caramel sauce and we were ALL DONE!

We counted out how many bowls we needed and then ALL enjoyed eating these yummy mud pies 🙂

 

 

 

 

Thanks so much for joining us on Old MacDonald’s farm! Join us again next week for more fun and learning——Group by Group!

Sep9

California

Posted on by
California


We are California dreaming this week! Ms. Jen’s vacation to California inspired us to learn more about the Golden State. The sensory groups explored boxes related to facts about California. The fine motor groups made art projects related to state symbols and the language group dressed up like movie stars!

 

 

 

 

 

SENSORY GROUP

This box was of blue and gold paper shred—-California state colors had lots to discover. Many foods are grown there so we put in a variety of plastic fruit and vegetables. We included state symbols such as the grizzly bear, the dog faced butterfly, a discovery bottle with “benitoite”, the state gemstone, and a picture of President Nixon who was born there! We even included some movie star sunglasses 🙂

The science access point recognize a model of a real object can be addressed here.

 

 

 

 

Death Valley is the driest place in North America! We used play sand for this box and added a funnel and small scoop. There was also a map of California to find at the bottom of the box. They had really had fun with this box!

Track objects in motion is a science access point.

 

 

 

 

 

The oldest operating McDonalds is in California! The students used a letter M cookie cutter to make some “golden arches” in yellow moon sand. There were also a couple of different sized scoops added to the fun.

Recognize a change in an object is a science access point.

 

 

 

 

 

The California gold rush started in 1848 and California is known as the Golden State! This box was filled with a variety of gold items included beads, fabric, and holiday garland. Lots of different textures to touch and explore!

Use senses to recognize objects is a science access point.

 

 

 

 

 

Sally Ride, the first American women in space, was born in California. For her box, we put a little astronaut and 2 big stars to discover in a box of “outer space” black beans.

Recognize objects as the same is a science access point.

 

 

 

 

 

We sprinkled blue and yellow glitter into “Pacific Ocean foam” shaving cream this week. As usual, our students had a blast with messy play 🙂

Recognize that pushing and pulling an object makes it move is a science access point.

 

 

 

 

 

California borders the Pacific Ocean so for our water play we put in some dolphins and sharks—- animals that might be seen swimming along the coast. There were also 2 different sized scoops for added fun!

The science access point recognize a model of a real object and the math access point recognize differences in sizes of containers that hold liquids, can both be addressed with this activity.

 

 

 

 

Bath and BodyWorks ocean scent was perfect for our water play and lotion. The scent was a hit with pretty much every student!

Recognize one or more external body parts is a science access point that can be addressed here.

 

 

 

 

 

FINE MOTOR GROUP

On Tuesday we made some giant redwood trees—-redwoods are the California state tree!

We started by identifying the color green and the number 3.

Identify objects by one observable property, such as color is a science access point.

Associate quantities with number names is a math access point.

 

 

 

 

 

Next we used paper cutters or switch operated scissors to cut out BIG green triangles counting each side as it as cut.

Recognize that pushing or pulling an object makes it move is a science access point.

 

 

 

 

 

The triangles were glued to paper towel tubes and——–TaDA!

                                                                          It’s a giant redwood tree!

 

 

 

 

 

 

On Wednesday we made bunches of grapes—-one of California’s largest crops!

We started by identifying the color purple.

Identify objects by one observable property, such as color is a science access point.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Then the students used a kitchen scrubber to make circles by stamping UP and DOWN onto a piece of paper.

Recognize a movement that reflects a spatial relationship, such as up and down is a math access point.

 

 

 

 

 

To finish off, we asked the students to identify the number 2. Then they glued 2 leaves onto their bunch of grapes.

Associate quantities with number names, and recognize when an object has been added to a situation are both math access points.

 

 

 

 

 

TA DA!

                                                Some yummy looking grapes!

 

 

 

 

 

LANGUAGE GROUP

This week, instead of making something to eat, we dressed up Hollywood style!

Each of our students got to take a turn pressing the switch to activate an All-Turn-It spinner.  On the spinner we had different things that they can wear: hat, gloves, necklace, sunglasses, and a fur stole.

 

 

 

 

Once our students landed on a picture, they had to indicate where they would wear it.  We had a board with the symbols for “where put” and then symbols for these options: head, hand, neck, eyes.

Recognize one or more external body parts is a science access point.

 

 

 

 

Our students needed some help with indicating the appropriate body part to answer “where”.  They sure knew where to put them when they wore them though!

We had some pretty classy ladies and gents today 🙂

 

 

 

 

 

 

Hope you learned a lot about California this week, we sure did!

Join us again next time for more fun and learning———Group by Group!

Sep3

Making Our Year Magical

Posted on by
Making Our Year Magical

Because our school is where magic happens every day, Disney was chosen as the school wide theme this year. Of course this is right up our alley and this week we went all out Disney with our activities! Our sensory groups explored boxes related to different characters. The fine motor groups made art projects with a Disney flair and the language group made a yummy treat you can buy when visiting Disney World.

 

 

 

 

SENSORY GROUP

This first box was filled with some Disney character figures, Mickey ears, a Minnie Mouse mirror box, and a magic wand. Lots of things to explore and discover in this box! Of course, the Mickey ears were particularly popular 🙂

The language access point communicate recognition of familiar persons or objects can be addressed with this activity.

 

 

 

 

 

The students had fun pressing Disney images into our Bippity Boppity Boo blue moon sand.

Recognize a change in an object is a science access point.

 

 

 

 

 

Our Prince Charming rice box contained some plastic knights in 2 different colors to match and sort. There was also a little horse and a picture of the prince to find at the bottom of the box.

Recognize 2 objects that are identical to each other is a math access point.

 

 

 

 

 

We put 2 stretchy toys to let the students practice being strong like Hercules! There was a soft starchy dog and a stretchy bug also vibrated when pulled apart——eliciting lots of giggles 🙂

Recognize that pushing or pulling an object makes it move is a science access point.

 

 

 

 

 

Our Tinker Bell light box was a huge hit and very entrancing to the students. There were 3 strands of battery operated lights in the box so it REALLY eye catching!

Recognize a source of light is a science access point.

Pretty darn magical——–

                                           if we do say so ourselves 🙂

 

 

 

 

The fairy dust discovery bottles were also very intriguing to the students. They loved watching the glitter swirling around. Both shaking and rolling the bottles produced similar results.

Track objects in motion is a science access point.

 

 

 

 

 

We put some fluorescent paint into our oobleck to make it MAGICAL this week. It really looked pretty awesome under the black light. We also added a little glitter for some extra sparkle!

Recognize that pushing or pulling an object makes it move is a science access point.

 

 

 

 

Hands were rinsed in Ariel’s mermaid lagoon! Along with a little mermaid toy, we put in a measuring cup for scooping fun.

The math access point recognize differences in sizes of containers that hold liquids can be addressed with this activity.

 

 

 

 

 

Our scent for the water play and lotion this week was Bath and BodyWorks One Thousand Wishes. We are not sure exactly what a thousand wishes smells like but the name kind of fit with our theme so— we went with it 🙂

Recognize one or more external body parts is a science access point.

 

 

 

 

 

 

FINE MOTOR GROUP

On Tuesday we made some Mickey Mouse ears using paper plates!

First we identified our paint color using communication symbols.

Identify objects by one observable property, such as color, is a science access point.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Then we counted our paper plates and identified the number 2.

Associate quantities with number names is a math access point.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Since we had two ears there was a lot of painting needed for this project, so we decided to use sponge brushes to get greater coverage.

Recognize a change in an object is a science access point.

 

 

 

 

 

We finished by stapling the “ears” onto  black paper plates (bought at the dollar store) with the center section cut out.

M I C —– K E Y

                                                           M O U S E!!!!

 

 

 

 

 

On Wednesday we made some magic wands!

The students got to choose a craft foam star and then identified the color using communication symbols.

Identify objects by one observable property, such as color, is a science access point.

 

 

 

 

 

Then the students decorated their stars using an assortment of stickers and putting them DOWN onto their stars.Peeling the backing off those stickers is a great way to practice pincer grasp skills!

Recognize a movement that reflects a spatial relationship such as up or down is a math access point.

 

 

 

 

 

TA DA!!!

                                           We going to make it a magical year!

 

 

 

 

 

LANGUAGE GROUP

This week, we made a cool treat that is actually sold in Disney World–a Pineapple Whip.  Here is the recipe that we followed: Let_s Make a Disney World Pineapple Whip!

We started by pouring in a small can of pineapple juice followed by 3 tbsp of honey.  We asked our students what we would use to measure out the honey: a tablespoon or a measuring cup.

Recognize differences in containers that hold liquids is a math access point.

 

 

 

 

 

We then added some frozen pineapple.  Each student got to feel the bag.  They conveyed whether it felt HOT or COLD.  Recognize the temperature of items, such as food, as cool or warm is a science access point.

 

 

 

 

Then we added the pineapple and some Cool Whip topping.

The math access point recognize when an object is added to a situation is addressed here.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Our students then had to turn on the food processor using a switch.  Since it was a little runnier than it was supposed to be, we added some ice.

Observe and recognize a predictable cause-effect relationship related to a science topic is a science access point that can be addressed here.

 

 

 

 

 

Once it was all blended and smooth, we counted out cups for each of our students——-7 cups for 7 students! Each student had to request a cup of Pineapple Whip and also a spoon if they wanted one.

                                                          YUMMMM!!!

The language access point adjust body movement or nonverbal expression with prompting as necessary to communicate wants and needs is addressed here.

 

 

 

 

This year truly is going to be magical!

Join us next time for more fun and learning——-Group by Group!

Aug27

What Teachers Do For Fun!

Posted on by
What Teachers Do For Fun!

Our staff are such a fun loving group that we decided to showcase them for our first theme of the year! We thought our students would also get a kick out of seeing the adults around them being a little goofy 🙂 The sensory, fine motor, and language groups this week were all related to the different ways the staff have fun!

So, welcome back to school and let the fun and learning begin!

 

 

 

SENSORY GROUP

Every time we have an event at school, someone dresses up as Hootie the Owl—-our school mascot. For Hootie we put a little owl and the letters O-W-L in a box filled with birdseed. We don’t use birdseed a lot but it has a really cool feel that our students really loved exploring.

The science access point recognize common objects in the environment is addressed here.

 

 

 

 

Digging holes on a sandy beach is a fun way to spend an afternoon! Our little beach contains kinetic sand which is always a lot of fun especially with the little shovel and rake we put in this box.

Recognize that pushing and pulling an object makes it move is a science access point.

 

 

 

 

Playing with their dogs is another way some of our teachers have fun. The students used a dog shaped cookie cutter to cut out some green play dough puppies. We chose the unusual color because it’s Ms. Robin’s favorite color and she gave us her picture for our book 🙂

The science access point apply a push to move an object is addressed here. The math access point associate quantities with number names can also be addressed.

 

 

 

 

Our annual Talent Contest is always a hit with both students and staff showing off their talents! The Dancing Divas were totally fun and this box contained some props and voice output device with recorded music letting the students channel their own inner divas!

Recognize and respond to different types of sensory stimuli is a science access point that can be addressed here.

 

 

 

 


Joy got to hang out with some Norwegian mountain trolls last summer—-how cool is that! In this box, 3 laminated trolls were added to climb around or hide in our grey Floam mountain.

The math access point associate quantities with number names can be addressed here.

 

 

 

 

Everyone knows teachers LOVE to glitter things—–so this week we glittered our shaving cream! We chose a bright pink glitter that was REALLY eye-catching.

Track the movement of objects that are pushed or pulled is a science access point.

 

 

 

 

Our water play basin was a little smaller than the water slide from Fun Day but there was still fun to be had. The students were pretty intrigued watching the spinning water wheel.

The science access point observe and recognize a predictable cause-effect relationship related to a science topic can be addressed here.

 

 

 

 

 


Ms. Maria sure looked like she was having fun eating her Columbian mango dessert so we used Bath and BodyWorks mango scent for both our water play and lotion this week. It was a nice sweet scent that the students really liked.

Recognize one or more external body parts is a science access point.

 

 

 

 

FINE MOTOR GROUP

On Tuesday our students used glitter to decorate some “Dancing Diva” musical notes made from black construction paper using this: music note

We started by letting our students choose which color glitter they wanted to use. They had a choice of green, red, or purple—–with the overwhelming favorite being PURPLE!

The language access point adjust body movement or nonverbal expression with prompting as necessary to communicate wants and needs is addressed here.

 

 

 

 

After squeezing out some glue, the students used a brush to spread it around.

Recognize that pushing and pulling an object makes it move is a science access point.

 

 

 

 

Singing to the tune of that KC and The Sunshine Band song it’s “Time to SHAKE SHAKE SHAKE, SHAKE SHAKE SHAKE, Shake that glitter”!

The math access point solve problems involving small quantities of actions using language, such as enough, too much, or more can be addressed here.

 

 

 

 

 

TA la la DA!

                                                                 So sparkly!

 

 

 

 

 

On Wednesday the students again used glitter but this time they decorated some wooden door hangers. These were left over from another project and we had just enough for this group!

First the students chose their door hanger and then used  brushes to “paint” them with glue.

Recognize that pushing and pulling an object makes it move is a science access point.

 

 

 

 

 

Next the students identified each glitter color using communication symbols.

Match objects with similar observable properties, such as color is a science access point.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Then the students used the different colored glitters to decorate their door hangers. Shaking that glitter again 🙂

Recognize a change in an object is a science access point.

 

 

 

 

 

Ta DA!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

                                                             Glitterville!!!

 

 

 

 

LANGUAGE GROUP

It is SOOOOO hot here, so our recipe was a cold one that was very appreciated!  This week we made mango frosties.  Here is the recipe we used: Let_s Make a Mango Frosty!

Throughout the group, picture symbols were presented to the students to help them locate the appropriate symbols on their communication boards.  The adults in the room helped model the use of the boards.

We started by measuring out the coconut milk.  We talked about how we needed a measuring cup rather than measuring spoons.  We then added the honey, vanilla, and salt.  Our students were great helpers and poured each ingredient into the food processor.

Recognize when an object is added to or taken away from a situation is a math access point.

 

 

 

 

 

Since Cara accidentally forgot the lime at home (whoops!), we skipped that part and went onto the frozen mangoes and bananas.   We brought the frozen fruit around and each student touched the bag.  We talked about how COLD the bags were.

Recognize objects or materials as warm or cold is a science access point.

 

 

 

 

 

Once all the ingredients were in the food processor, our students helped turn it on by activating a switch.  It took a little while to get really smooth so each student had a chance to help out.

The math access point solve problems involving small quantities of objects or action using language, such as enough, too much, or more is addressed here.

 

 

 

 

 

When the frosty was ready, we counted out cups for each of our friends.

                                                         We needed 7!

Associate quantities with number names is a math access point.

 

 

 

 

 

Then, our favorite part, we got to eat!

YUM!!!!!!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

What a great start to the school year!

Join us again next time for more fun and learning——-Group by Group!

May21

Let’s Go To The Beach

Posted on by
Let’s Go To The Beach

Summer vacation is coming up soon so you know what that means—–let’s go to the beach!  The sensory groups explored boxes filled with items you might find at the beach. The fine motor groups made beach themed art projects out of paper plates and the language group made a beach inspired treat.

It was a fun filled week and a great theme to end this school year!

 

 

 

 

SENSORY GROUP

Play sand is a great medium to explore. Not only is it soft to the touch but so fun to watch stream down through the funnel we put in this box!

Track objects in motion is a science access point.

 

 

 

 

 

Down near the water the sand denser and perfect for building sandcastles—–like our moon sand! In this box a plastic crab, toy sea turtle and 2 shells could be found. There was also a fun play dough toy. It could be used to make sand castles or rolled along to make footprints in the sand—-very cool!

Recognize a model of a real object is a science access point.

 

 

 

 

 

While we don’t have any black sand beaches here, we think they would be pretty cool to explore! Our black sand beach was actually kinetic sand—-always popular with both students and staff! Everyone loves the way kinetic sand feels but since it molds well, we put a cute starfish mold in this box.

The science access point apply a push to move an object can be addressed here.

 

 

 

 

 

Playing along the seashore means feeling a cool breeze and water spray. There were a variety of hand operated fans to mimic ocean breezes. We had some with whirling lights and others that did not have blades at all—-very cool!

The students found them fascinating.

The really fun part of this box was our misting water bottle! After we sprayed the water into the air, there were LOTS of giggles from the students as the water droplets fell down on them 🙂

Recognize and respond to different types of sensory stimuli is a science access point.

 

 

 

 

 

Of course, with a beach unit we HAD to include our ocean umbrella! Both dolphin and whale sounds were recorded on a voice output device. As usual, this umbrella was a hit—-it really is one of our favorites 🙂

The science access point match living things with their habitats can be addressed here.

 

 

 

 

Since this is our last post of the year—–and our students are so VERY cute,

                                                here are a few more photos 🙂

 

 

 

 

 

For our messy play this week we asked the students to make wavy ocean wave lines in our “sea foam” shaving cream. A really fun way to work on pre-writing skills!

Recognize that pushing and pulling an object makes it move is a science access point.

 

 

 

 

 

Our water play featured a fun little fish and some different sized scoops. Water is always fun for our students and a great way to rinse off messy hands 🙂

Recognize differences in sizes of containers that hold liquids is a math access point.

 

 

 

 

 

Sunscreen is a MUST for a day at the beach! Bath and BodyWorks aruba coconut bath gel in our water and its matching scented lotion left our students smelling like they had spent a day at the beach!

Recognize one or more external body parts is a science access point.

 

 

 

 

 

FINE MOTOR GROUP

On Tuesday our students made paper plate sea shells. To make the plates look like shells we just freehanded a little curve along each side of a small paper plate—-pretty easy.

To start out we asked the students to identify the color of our paint using communication symbols.

Identify objects by one observable property, such as color, is a science access point.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Then the students painted their sea shells PINK!

Recognize a change in an object is a science access point.

 

 

 

 

 

We added some glitter to give the shell a little sparkle!

Recognize when an object is added to a situation is a math access point.

 

 

 

 

 

TA DA!

Fabulous sea shells!!!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

On Wednesday the students made crabs using paper plates. Paper plates were folded in half and stapled prior to the group. We also pre-made the crab pincers.

Using communication symbols, the students identified the color of the paint they were going to use to paint their crabs.

Identify objects by one observable property, such as color, is a science access point.

 

 

 

 

They also identified a semi-circle—–the shape of our crabs!

Recognize a half of an object as part of the whole object is a science access point.

 

 

 

 

 

The students added 2 crab pincers (made with chenille stems and construction paper) by putting the chenille stem through holes punched in the plates. They did a really great job with this!

The math access point associate quantities with number names can be addressed here.

 

 

 

 

Then the students painted their crabs with bright YELLOW paint!

Recognize a change in an object is a science access point.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

2 glue dots were added for 2 googlie eyes! We pre-glued the googlie eyes on to paper circles to make for easier handling.

Match an object to a designated space to show one-to-one correspondence is a math access point.

 

 

 

 

 

TA DA!!!

Such cute little yellow crabs!

 

 

 

 

They are super cute BUT…….

better watch out for those crab claws 🙂

 

 

 

 

 

LANGUAGE GROUP

We did things a little bit differently today.  Instead of making something to eat, we made ourselves a nice cool drink!  We made a copycat recipe of Sonic’s Ocean Water drink.  Here’s the recipe we used: Let_s Make Sonic Ocean Water

We started out by measuring some sugar.  We talked about how we use measuring spoons rather than measuring cups.  We added some water and then microwaved the ingredients for 30 seconds.

 

 

 

 

 

While the ingredients were in the microwave, we talked about how things get HOT when they are heated up.  Once the sugar and water was finished, we stirred it up and let it sit for a bit to cool down. When it was safe, the students got to feel the warm bowl.

Recognize objects or materials as warm or cold is a science access point.

 

 

 

 

 

We counted out 4 drops of food coloring and then added some coconut extract.  We stirred it all up and watched as the color CHANGED.

Recognize a change in an object is a science access point.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

We POURED 2 cans of sprite into a pitcher.

Then we poured the other ingredients in and stirred it all up and……

VOILA! We created our own Ocean drink!

The math access point associate quantities with number names is addressed here. The science access point recognize a change in an object is also addressed.

 

 

 

 

 

Our students got to request if they wanted any goldfish crackers to go with their drink.  They were only given a small amount and had to ask for MORE if they wanted more.

Both the drink and the crackers were hits 🙂

Indicate desire for more of an action or object is  math access point.

I think we’re all ready to visit the beach!

 

 

 

 

Well thank you for joining us! We hope you enjoy your summer as much as we plan to! Hope to see you in the fall for more fun and learning Group by Group!