Tag Archives: access points

Sep26

Pirates

Posted on September 26, 2020 by jd785

Yo Ho Ho—-it’s pirate week mateys! Talk like a pirate day was September 19 but we decided one day was not enough—-we needed a whole week 🙂

SENSORY

Our pirates dug in the sand for buried treasure!

There were 3 gold coins to find.

Science access point: recognize objects as the same.

More pirate booty was had here, beads became more treasure—-gold, silver, rubies, diamonds, emeralds, and sapphires!

Fun to wear or shake and they made lots of noise when moved around on the tray!

Science access point: track objects in motion.

We put 2 pirates and 1 map or treasure chest in the black kinetic sand this week.

The students had lots of fun with the pirate figures.

Math access point: associate quantities with number names.

Shaving foam became “sea foam” this week.

We drew letter X in the shaving foam——X marks the spot!

Science access point: recognize that pushing or pulling an object makes it move.

There were some pirate ships and pirate duckies floating in our mini oceans.

A few lucky students even spotted an old shipwreck.

Science access point: apply a push to move an object.

We chose Bath and Body Works ocean scent this week.

The perfect scent for a seafaring unit and a hit with the buccaneers!

Science access point: recognize one or move external body parts.

GROSS MOTOR

For pirate week, our gross motor activity was walking the plank.

Students walked on a balance beam or landscape timber in forward or lateral directions to work on balance.

Our students using wheelchairs or adaptive equipment, rolled or walked on a painted line on the sidewalk. They had to look down to make sure they kept the line between their wheels.

At home you could use pillows, couch cushions, paper plates, a board, duct tape, etc. to make your own plank. You can have your child walk forward, backward, or laterally. Whatever your plank is, the object is to stay on the plank and to avoid falling in the water.

FINE MOTOR

For project one, the students made a treasure map and used this template to put themselves in the picture: pirate figure

First, the students identified the shape of their paper and the color of the stamp pad ink.

Math access point: recognize objects with two-dimensional shapes.

Science access point: identify objects by one observable property, such as color.

The students drew lines on their paper. We encouraged them to draw serpentine lines but they could do whatever they wanted.

Science access point: recognize that pushing and pulling an object makes it move.

The students had to press DOWN and then lift the stamp UP when adding an X to mark the spot of their treasure. They also stamped a skull and crossbones flag.

We used double stick tape to adhere the stamps to our kitchen scrubbers.

Math access point: recognize a movement that reflects a spatial relationship, such as up and down.

After the students’ faces had been added to the pirate figure, it too was glued to the picture and……

……TA DA!!! Let’s search for buried treasure!

For project two, the students made a pirate puppet using paper bags and this template: pirate puppet

First, the students identified the color and shape of their paper bag.

Math access point: recognize objects with two-dimensional shapes.

Science access point: identify objects by one observable property, such as color.

Then, they cut stripes for the pirates shirt.

Switch operated scissors were used when needed.

Science access point: recognize a change in the external appearance of an object.

We counted 3 stripes which were then glued to the bag.

Math access point: associate quantities with number names.

Next, the students glued to face to the TOP of the paper bag and a colorful head scarf.

Math access point: recognize when an object has been added to a situation.

One googly eye completed the look.

Math access point: match an object to a designated space to show one-to-one correspondence.

TA DA!!!

Arrgggg—–our mighty pirates are ready to set sail!!!

LANGUAGE

We had a pirate worthy treat today! Here’s the recipe that we used: Let’s Make Ocean Water (this is a copycat recipe for the Sonic Ocean Water drink)

We started off by PUTTING sugar into a glass container. Then we PUT some water in the same container and stirred it around.

Math access point: recognize when an object is added to a situation.

We had to microwave the sugar water for 45 seconds. Students had to predict whether they thought microwaving would make the sugar water hot or cold.

Science access point: recognize a temperature change from cold to warm.

Once it was heated up, we stirred it up again. Students observed the sugar water and said if they saw the sugar in the water any more once it had dissolved.

Science access point: recognize examples of materials that will dissolve in water.

We PUT the water into a pitcher. Then we added some coconut extract. We put some on Q-tips so that each student could SMELL the coconut extract. They had to indicate whether it smelled GOOD or BAD.

Science access point: recognize and respond to one type of sensory stimuli.

We PUT in 1 liter of Sprite and 5 drops of blue food coloring. Students HELPED by counting out the number of drops. We watched as the color changed from clear to blue. We stirred it one more time.

Science access point: recognize a change in the external appearance of an object.

Students had to indicate what they were going to do with the ocean water: EAT or DRINK.

They had to request their drink and also their goldfish. Arggg!

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

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Sep18

Uncle Sam

Posted on September 18, 2020 by jd785

Uncle Sam

September 13 was Uncle Sam Day, so we decided to learn a little more about one of the symbols of our country. It was a RED, WHITE, and BLUE week!

SENSORY

We brought back our blue and red moon sand and star cookie cutters from last week but added pictures of Uncle Sam and the American flag to go along with our theme.

Moon sand has a great texture that our students really enjoy.

Social studies access point: recognize the American flag.

The students had lots of fun with RED, WHITE, and BLUE beads. We put in multiples of each so the students could sort and match by color.

Science access point: match objects with similar observable properties, such as color.

The colors in our rice were so vibrant and really eye catching! The students searched for letters S A M or U S A.

Science access point: recognize and respond to different types of sensory stimuli.

We added a little Red and Blue glitter to white shaving foam and students liked watching the glitter swirl around!

Plastic plates are working out great as individual messy play trays.

Science access point: recognize that pushing and pulling an object makes it move.

We even continued the theme with our water play. Each student had either a red, white, or blue measuring cup!

Math access point: recognize differences in sizes of containers that hold liquids.

The perfect scent for this patriotic week—-apple from Bath and Body Works! A nice reminder of the fun we had!

Each student gets their own dab of the lotion in bottle caps we collected.

Science access point: recognize one or more external body parts.

GROSS MOTOR

For our gross motor activity this week, we thought a good way to celebrate Uncle Sam Day was a parade. Since we can’t have any parades right now, we had students imitate gross motor movements that you might see if you were to go to a parade.

For ambulatory students, they walked or marched on bubble wrap (used to represent fireworks) while waving a red or blue streamer.

For our students who can self-propel their wheelchairs, they rolled over the bubble wrap.

For our students working on sitting, bubble wrap was placed under their feet while they were positioned in supported in sitting. They stomped/marched on the bubble wrap either independently or with assistance to make firework sounds.

Science access point: recognize and respond to sounds.

They also waved streamers independently or with hand over hand assistance to celebrate Uncle Sam Day.

Science access point: recognize an action as fast or slow.

FINE MOTOR

For project one, we made Uncle Sam masks with paper plates.

First, we identified the shape and color of the paper.

Math access point: recognize an object with a two-dimensional shape.

Science access point: identify objects by one observable property, such as color.

Then, the students cut strips out of red construction paper to make stripes for their hats.

Of course, we counted the strips!

Science access point: recognize a change in the external appearance of an object.

The three red strips were glued to a piece of white paper to make stripes.

The hat was glued to the TOP of the paper plate and a piece of batting was glued to the BOTTOM.

Math access point: identify spatial relationships.

TA DA!!

Hello Uncle Sam!!!!!

For project two, the students made patriotic banners.

First, they identified the color of their marker and the shape of their paper.

Science access point: identify objects by one observable property, such as color.

Math access point: recognize an object with a two-dimensional shape.

The students were directed to draw vertical/down lines on their paper.

Science access point: track objects moving up and down.

Then, they glued on a picture of Uncle Sam (we just printed a coloring page) and TWO blue stars (cut from the Ellison machine).

Math access point: associate quantities with number names.

TA DA!!!

Our banners turned out great—-

—-and so patriotic!

LANGUAGE

We made a really pretty, patriotic snack this week. Here’s the recipe that we used: Let’s Make Patriotic Parfaits

We started by making some whipped cream. We had students HELP us by pouring the whipping cream into the BIG bowl. They first had to show us which bowl was BIG.

Math access point: recognize differences in size of objects.

Our students HELPED turn on the mixer by using a wireless switch. We had to check periodically to see if it was still LIQUID.

Science access point: distinguish between water as a solid or liquid.

We added some vanilla and confectioners’ sugar to the bowl. We put some vanilla extract on a paper towel and let our students smell it. It has such a strong smell but surprisingly all but 1 of our students liked it!

Science access point: recognize and respond to one type of sensory stimuli.

We used the mixer again until we saw some stiff peaks.

Science access point: recognize changes in observable properties of materials.

Each table had a bowl of strawberries and blueberries. We followed the steps and started layering our parfaits, starting with strawberries, HALF a container of vanilla Greek yogurt, blueberries, strawberries, whipped cream, and topped off with blueberries.

Math access point: recognize the next step in a sequence of activities.

These look so pretty and our students scarfed them down pretty fast 🙂

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

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Sep12

Outer Space

Posted on September 12, 2020 by jd785

Outer Space

Out of This World is our school wide theme this year! So we are all about outer space theme this week! The students had fun learning about planets and stars with our sensory, gross motor, fine motor, and language activities.

SENSORY

Our outer space umbrella was very eye catching and a hit with the students! There were stars, constellations, planets, and a big yellow sun to find.

Science access point: recognize a space related object.

Colorful Floam got molded into planets and asteroids!

They really had fun with this!

Math access point: recognize common three-dimensional objects, such as spheres.

The students used star or moon shaped cookie cutters to make impressions in “Mars” red or “Jupiter” blue moon sand.

Science access point: apply a push to move an object.

We printed out and laminated some pictures of planets and astronauts to mix in with our black “outer space” kinetic sand.

We ordered our kinetic sand from Amazon.

Science access point: recognize that pushing and pulling an object makes it move.

Large silver glitter looked like stars swirling around the oobleck Milky Way.

Oobleck is made from cornstarch and water and easily done at home too!

Science access point: track objects in motion.

Hands were rinsed in “clouds of Venus” water.

Science access point: recognize and respond to one type of sensory stimuli.

We finished with a “to the stars” lotion from Bath and Body Works. It had an out of this world aroma 🙂

Science access point: recognize one or more external body parts.

GROSS MOTOR

For the gross motor activity this week, there were several options.

For our students whom are ambulatory or can self-propel their wheelchairs, we made an obstacle course using round sound steps and rings/hoops for them to work on stepping up on the steps and then transitioning to stepping into/out of the hoop. Our students using wheelchairs, worked on self-propelling their wheelchairs in a weaving pattern around the round sound steps and hoops.

For our non-ambulatory students, we worked on reaching for a ball while in a supported sitting position to address balance, trunk control, and head control. We also worked catching/throwing ball activities while in supported sitting positions, tall kneeling, or standing.

At home, you could make an obstacle course using items around the house such as, step stools, pillows, hula hoops, etc. to practice stepping up/down, over, or around obstacles. You can also work on catching, throwing, or kicking a ball.

FINE MOTOR

For project one, our students painted paper plate planets with glow in the dark paint!

First, they identified the shape of the paper plate either verbally or by using communication symbols.

Math access point: recognize object with two-dimensional shapes, such as a circle.

Then, identified their paint color and started painting.

Science access point: identify objects by one observable property, such as color.

After the students finished painting, they held their plates under a black light—so cool!

TA DA!!

For project two, the students made rockets out of cardboard tubes.

First, they identified the shape of their paper and colored it using either markers or crayons.

Math access point: recognize object with two-dimensional shapes, such as a rectangle.

Then, they glued and rolled the paper around the cardboard tube.

Science access point: recognize that pushing and pulling an object makes it move.

Next, they cut a square into two triangles and attached them to the tube using glue.

Science access point: recognize a change in the appearance of an object.

A picture of our little astronauts and a nose cone was glued on to the tube.

Math access point: recognize when an object is added to a situation.

TA DA!!!

To infinity and beyond!

LANGUAGE

We became astronauts today and made some astronaut pudding! Here’s the recipe we used: Let’s Make Astronaut Pudding

We started out by sanitizing everyone’s hands. Then each student got a ziploc bag.

They first had to request the pudding mix. Since it required the use of both a tablespoon and a teaspoon, we got to practice working on BIG and LITTLE. We talked about the tablespoon being BIG and the teaspoon being LITTLE.

Math access point: recognize similarities and differences in size of objects.

We counted out ONE tablespoon and TWO teaspoons of pudding mix. If we only gave the student one teaspoon, they had to request MORE.

Math access point: indicate desire for more of an action or object.

We did the same with the powdered milk.

Next, students got to choose which color they WANTED their pudding to be: red, white, or blue. If they chose red or blue, they had to HELP count out 3 drops of food coloring.

Math access point: associate quantities with number names.

After that, they had to request water. Staff helped as the water was poured into the bags. We then made sure the ziploc bags were sealed closed.

Students then got to squish and squeeze their bags so the pudding would set. It takes a minute so if it seems like it’s going to be a drippy mess, give it a little time.

Once the pudding set, we cut a corner of the bag and our students SQUEEZED the pudding into a cup to eat.

Math access point: recognize that pushing and pulling an object makes it move.

Some notes: we put the food coloring in before the water, but it might work a little better after the water is put in. Also, put a little less than 1/2 a cup of water. This turned out to be both a snack AND an experiment 🙂

It was a truly out of this world week! Join us again for more fun and learning—-Group by Group!

Sep6

Back to School

Posted on September 6, 2020 by jd785

Back to School

We’re BACK!! We are so glad to be back at school and to see our students again. School started this week, but a little bit differently for sure. Our county is doing a hybrid model with some students “brick and mortar” and some digital. Here at Group by Group we are adapting our model to meet the changes we are all facing. You will notice smaller and fewer boxes in our sensory section—-no more sharing materials! We also are doing things a little differently in our fine motor and language sections. A nice addition has been our PT on board with gross motor ideas! Enjoy!

SENSORY

We used blue and yellow rice to represent the colors of our school. At home you could just use plain rice or any other sensory material of your choice.

Learning letters and numbers is a big part of the school experience so we added some for our students to find.

Science access point: use senses to recognize objects.

There were some laminated pictures of school buses, school houses, etc. that he students could push into black kinetic sand.

We chose the black sand to represent a road. At home you could use regular sand or play dough with toy cars and figures.

Science access point: apply a push to move an object.

Music is one of our favorite special areas so we let our students make their own using shaker bottles. We made our shaker bottles using soda bottles and beads (gluing the lids closed). At home you can use toy rattles or maracas—we just didn’t have enough for everyone to have their own individual instrument.

Science access point: recognize the change in the motion of an object.

Shaving cream finger painting reminded us of another favorite special area—art! We used plastic plates so everyone had their own personal palette!

Whether at home or at school—- shaving cream is always fun 🙂

Science access point: recognize that pushing and pulling an object makes it move.

Washing hands is even more important these days! The students practiced washing their hands in water with our scent of the week—-apple from Bath and Body Works. At home you could use any kind of bath gel to add some fun bubbles and aroma to the activity.

Science access point: observe and recognize that people need water.

The matching lotion applied to arms or hands left a nice sensory reminder of our activities.

Science access point: recognize one or more external body parts.

GROSS MOTOR

This week we worked on campus mobility to familiar areas on campus using pictures as a clue.

Ambulatory students or students who are able to self propel their wheelchairs walked/rolled to a requested location either by name, using clues to figure out the location being described, or by using pictures. Transitions between various surfaces, stairs, curbs, ramps, etc. were included when traveling to the requested location.

For digital academy students, you could work on moving around within the home environment.

For students who are unable to walk or roll themselves, we worked on reaching for, or pointing to, a requested picture of a location while sitting or standing to address balance. For digital academy students, you could have students stand on a pillow to challenge their balance during the activity.

Students working on head control practiced lifting their heads to look at a picture or school related item. For students working on head control at home, a song/music video about school could be pulled up on the computer to practice lifting their heads and/or maintaining an upright head position.

FINE MOTOR

For the first project, the students added the letters of their names to craft foam school buses picked up at the dollar store. Of course we can’t show you our students real names so we made a model for them to hold up for the Ta Da photos.

First, the students identified the color of their writing utensil by pointing to communication symbols.

Science access point: identify objects by one observable property, such as color.

They colored the letters using crayons or markers.

Science access point: recognize a change in the appearance of an object.

The letters were glued to the school bus using squeeze glue to work on hand strengthening.

Math access point: recognize when an object is added to a situation.

TA DA!!!

The wheels on the bus go round and round.

For the second project the students painted masks!

First, they chose which paint color they wanted to use.

Science access point: identify objects by one observable property, such as color.

Then, they painted their cotton masks—–the colors were so vibrant!!! After painting, we turned the masks over and patted them down with paper towels to blot excess paint.

Science access point: recognize a change in the appearance of an object.

TA DA!!!

Our masks are cute, colorful and stylish 🙂

LANGUAGE

We made some really cute back to school snacks featuring our mascot, Hootie the Owl, this week in our language group! This is the recipe that we used: Let’s Make Welcome Back Hootie Snacks

For this recipe, each person had to request each food item in order to put together their owl snack. They had to request either verbally or by using their communication symbols.

Our students worked on spreading the peanut butter. This was challenging for many of them, so they had to ask for HELP.

We talked about eyes next. Each student had to make sure that they were given 2 banana slices for 2 eyes. We talked about how the eyes go at the TOP.

Then, each student had to PUT a LITTLE bit of peanut butter in the MIDDLE of the banana slices in order for the chocolate chips to stay on.

They had to request 2 apple slices for the wings, 1 dried cranberry for the beak, and some Cheerios for the feathers. If they WANTED MORE Cheerios, they had to request.

These were a HOOT to make and to eat!

We are so happy to see our kiddos again 🙂 Join us again next time for more fun and learning—–Group by Group!

Mar15

Light and Sound

Posted on March 15, 2020 by jd785

Light and Sound

This week our theme complements the monthly Unique Curriculum unit for our students. The sensory group explored boxes filled with light or sound. The fine motor groups made thematic crafts and the language group did some light and sound experiments!

SENSORY GROUP

Our space blanket was both reflective and also made LOTS of noise as it was moved around.

The students had a blast!

Science access point: recognize that pushing or pulling makes an object move.

More photos because this was so much FUN!!!

Colorful pasta was not only eye catching but noisy, as hands pushed through to find letters L and S.

We used regular pasta, tri-colored pasta, and pasta of different different shapes that we dyed ourselves.

Science access point: match objects with similar observable properties, such as size, shape, color, or texture.

Our light box was made by hot gluing cut up plastic notebook dividers to the sides of a shoebox and then adding lights.

It really looked cool—–especially when we turned the overhead lights off.

Science access point: recognize a source of light energy.

We thought it would be fun to put some bubble wrap sheets in one of our boxes.

The students had fun pinching or squeezing the bubbles to make them POP!

Science access point: apply a push to move an object.

There were all sorts of LIGHT producing toys in this box.

Some of them could just be turned on but others needed to be moved to activate the lights—-so fun!

Science access point: distinguish between objects in motion and at rest.

This box contained a variety of SOUND producing toys including an accordion tube, shaker bottle, and a variety of musical instruments.

The students really had fun making noise 🙂

Science access point: recognize and respond to sounds.

We added pop rocks to our oobleck this week!

Noisy, messy play—-always a hit!

Science access point: track objects in motion.

A water wheel toy made our water noisy.

Watching the wheel spin and splash water was really fascinating!

Science access point: recognize the change in the motion of an object.

It was hard finding a scent to work with our theme this week but we dug through our stash of lotion and found one called Hello Sunshine which seemed a perfect fit—-the sun brings us light after all 🙂

It was a nice sweet scent that the students all liked.

Science access point: recognize one or more external body parts.

Since we were doing a unit on sound we HAD to bring out our big strips of bubble wrap to roll or run over!

As always, so many smiles!

Science access point: apply a push to move an object.

FINE MOTOR GROUP

On Tuesday we made sun catchers!

First, the students identified a circle.

Math access point: recognize a common object with two-dimensional shape.

Next, they began tearing yellow or orange tissue paper into small pieces.

Science access point: recognize a change in the external appearance of an object.

The tissue paper pieces were placed on clear contact paper.

Math access point: recognize when an object is added to a situation.

TA DA!!!

Look at our sun catchers!

Let the sunshine in!

On Wednesday, the students made shaker bottles.

First, the students identified a rectangle.

Math access point: recognize object with two-dimensional shapes.

Then, they used crayons to decorate a piece of paper.

When done, the decorated piece of paper was taped around a plastic bottle.

Science access point: recognize a change in the external appearance of an object.

They put a funnel in their bottle and poured some beads into it! The students loved watching the beads drop down.

It was also a great opportunity to practice using BOTH hands!

Science access point: track objects that fall to the ground.

Next, they added 3 jingle bells.

Math access point: associate quantities with number names.

An adult hot glued the cap on to the bottle and……

TA DA!!!

Shake, shake, shake, that bottle—-of course we sang along 🙂

LANGUAGE GROUP

We had some fun with light and sound experiments today!

Our first experiment involved us using sun sensitive paper (purchased from Oriental Trading). To use this, you put something on top of the paper, like a leaf or a cutout of a shape, and place them in the sun. The sun paper should change in color so that you can see the shape of whatever you placed on top of it.

We started out by each student choosing a cutout of an object that they liked out of a field of 2 cutouts.

Once everyone chose their cutout, each person made a prediction about if they thought this experiment would work or not.

All but one student made the prediction that YES, it would work.

We walked outside and found a bright and sunny place to put our papers.

While we were waiting for the paper, we played a sound game. Each student had a chance to take out one thing from a bag of small objects.

Once they picked their object, they had to drop it into a tin container.

They had to indicate whether the object was LOUD when it was dropped in the container or if it was QUIET. If it was loud, students used a sentence strip to indicate “I hear it”. If it was quiet, students used a sentence strip to indicate “I don’t hear it”. We had different objects like cotton balls, feathers, toy cars, and plastic animals.

When our sound game was over, we checked out the sun paper to see if it had changed color. It worked! The directions said to put the paper in some water for a minute and then lay it out to dry.

These turned out really cool!

We are getting ready to go on a bit of an extended spring break but be sure to join us again next time for more fun and learning—–Group by Group!

Don’t forget to check your SPAM folder for a confirmation email if you want to follow us!

Mar8

Our Favorite Books

Posted on March 8, 2020 by jd785

Our Favorite Books

We are celebrating National Read Across America which was on March 2 by talking about some of our favorite books! The sensory groups explored boxes related to different books. The fine motor groups made projects based on book characters and the language group made a tasty book themed treat!

SENSORY GROUP

National Read Across America is also known as Dr. Seuss Day, so a Cat in the Hat box was a must this week!

The students sorted red and white (the colors of the cat’s hat) pom poms.

Science access point: match objects by one observable property, such as color.

Pete the Cat is another favorite cat around here!

Cookie cutter letters C A T and a cat shaped cookie cutter were used in blue moon sand.

Science access point: apply a push to move an object.

This book themed box contained a variety of items to discover and explore such as a “Harry Potter” wand, truffula tree top (aka a cheerleader pompom), and a Goodnight Moon bunny.

We recorded a musical version of the Chicka Chicka Boom Boom story on a voice output and the students loved it but….

……the wand was the BIG hit!

Language access point: identify characters or objects in familiar stories.

Our colorful butterfly and caterpillar pasta was very eye catching.

There were 2 sparkly butterflies—–and one very hungry caterpillar 🙂

Math access point: recognize two objects that are identical to each other.

Charlotte’s web was made using silver garland.

We included 3 fluffy spiders. One of them vibrated after a string was pulled—so much fun!

Math access point: recognize objects that are the same size or color.

The students gave Aslan the lion (from The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe) a fluffy shaving cream mane.

The students mixed in the yellow food coloring.

Science access point: recognize that pushing and pulling an object makes it move.

The Rainbow fish inspired our water play this week. We used Crayola bath drops to make the water really colorful and very eye catching!

There were lots of colorful fish and a funnel.

Science access point: track objects in motion.

Bath and Body Works hot cocoa scented lotion had a really yummy aroma.

Definitely Willy Wonka approved!

Science access point: recognize one or more external body parts.

FINE MOTOR GROUP

On Tuesday, we channeled Harold and the Purple Crayon!

First, the students identified the color PURPLE.

Science access point: identify objects by one observable property, such as color.

Then, they drew their own purple masterpieces. For our students, the vibrant visual feedback and low friction make markers easier to use than crayons.

Some of the students used a switch to access their drawing tools.

Science access point: recognize that pushing and pulling an object makes it move.

TA DA!!!

See what we made………..with our purple markers!

On Wednesday, the students made Charlotte’s Web! We got this idea from Pinterest.

First, the students glued 3 words on their web.

Math access point: associate quantities with number names.

Next, they cut lengths of yarn and began winding it around the paper plate webs.

We precut notches in the plates to make things easier for the students.

Math access point: solve problems involving small quantities of actions using language, such as enough, took much, or more.

We added a little spider.

Math access point: match one object to a designated space to show one-to-one correspondence.

TA DA!!

It’s Charlotte’s Web!

Radiant!!!!!!!! Fun!!!!!!!!

Stupendous!!!!!!!

LANGUAGE GROUP

We made a treat that we think even Willy Wonka would enjoy! Here is the recipe that we made: Let’s Make Willy Wonka’s Chocolate Mousse

We started by measuring out some heavy whipping cream. We needed 1 1/2 cups so the student who HELPED had to LOOK at the measuring cup and indicate whether we needed MORE or we were ALL DONE measuring it out. Then they poured it in the bowl.

Math access point: solve problems involving small quantities of objects or actions using language, such as enough, too much, or more.

We had a few students HELP with the mixer using the wireless switch.

It’s so fun to watch our students who get all excited when they realize that they are the ones turning the mixer on 🙂

While we were mixing, we observed to see whether the whipping cream was THICK or THIN. When it thickened up, we added some powdered sugar.

Our students had to indicate the 1/4 measuring cup by showing us the LITTLE measuring cup.

Math access point: recognize similarities and differences in size of common objects.

We used a new cooking tool this week: a sifter. A student HELPED sift the cocoa powder into the bowl. They seemed to like seeing the cocoa powder being PUT in the top and coming out the bottom.

Science access point: track objects in motion.

We used the mixer again to mix it all up and the mousse formed pretty quickly.

We counted out cups for each student. They requested some mousse and then we added some toppings.

Each student got just a little bit of whipped cream. They had to request MORE or indicate that they were ALL DONE. We did the same with the strawberries.

This was a great chocolatey treat!

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

Don’t forget to check your SPAM folder for a confirmation email if you want to follow us.

Mar8

Our Favorite Books

Posted on March 8, 2020 by jd785

Our Favorite Books

SENSORY GROUP

National Read Across America is also known as Dr. Seuss Day, so a Cat in the Hat box was a must this week!

The students sorted red and white (the colors of the cat’s hat) pom poms.

Science access point: match objects by one observable property, such as color.

Pete the Cat is another favorite cat around here!

Cookie cutter letters C A T and a cat shaped cookie cutter were used in blue moon sand.

Science access point: apply a push to move an object.

This book themed box contained a variety of items to discover and explore such as a “Harry Potter” wand, truffula tree top (aka a cheerleader pompom), and a Goodnight Moon bunny.

We recorded a musical version of the Chicka Chicka Boom Boom story on a voice output and the students loved it but….

……the wand was the BIG hit!

Language access point: identify characters or objects in familiar stories.

Our colorful butterfly and caterpillar pasta was very eye catching.

There were 2 sparkly butterflies—–and one very hungry caterpillar 🙂

Math access point: recognize two objects that are identical to each other.

Charlotte’s web was made using silver garland.

We included 3 fluffy spiders. One of them vibrated after a string was pulled—so much fun!

Math access point: recognize objects that are the same size or color.

The students gave Aslan the lion (from The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe) a fluffy shaving cream mane.

The students mixed in the yellow food coloring.

Science access point: recognize that pushing and pulling an object makes it move.

The Rainbow fish inspired our water play this week. We used Crayola bath drops to make the water really colorful and very eye catching!

There were lots of colorful fish and a funnel.

Science access point: track objects in motion.

Bath and Body Works hot cocoa scented lotion had a really yummy aroma.

Definitely Willy Wonka approved!

Science access point: recognize one or more external body parts.

FINE MOTOR GROUP

On Tuesday, we channeled Harold and the Purple Crayon!

First, the students identified the color PURPLE.

Science access point: identify objects by one observable property, such as color.

Then, they drew their own purple masterpieces. For our students, the vibrant visual feedback and low friction make markers easier to use than crayons.

Some of the students used a switch to access their drawing tools.

Science access point: recognize that pushing and pulling an object makes it move.

TA DA!!!

See what we made………..with our purple markers!

On Wednesday, the students made Charlotte’s Web! We got this idea from Pinterest.

First, the students glued 3 words on their web.

Math access point: associate quantities with number names.

Next, they cut lengths of yarn and began winding it around the paper plate webs.

We precut notches in the plates to make things easier for the students.

Math access point: solve problems involving small quantities of actions using language, such as enough, took much, or more.

We added a little spider.

Math access point: match one object to a designated space to show one-to-one correspondence.

TA DA!!

It’s Charlotte’s Web!

Radiant!!!!!!!! Fun!!!!!!!!

Stupendous!!!!!!!

LANGUAGE GROUP

We made a treat that we think even Willy Wonka would enjoy! Here is the recipe that we made: Let’s Make Willy Wonka’s Chocolate Mousse

Math access point: solve problems involving small quantities of objects or actions using language, such as enough, too much, or more.

We had a few students HELP with the mixer using the wireless switch.

It’s so fun to watch our students who get all excited when they realize that they are the ones turning the mixer on 🙂

While we were mixing, we observed to see whether the whipping cream was THICK or THIN. When it thickened up, we added some powdered sugar.

Our students had to indicate the 1/4 measuring cup by showing us the LITTLE measuring cup.

Math access point: recognize similarities and differences in size of common objects.

We used a new cooking tool this week: a sifter. A student HELPED sift the cocoa powder into the bowl. They seemed to like seeing the cocoa powder being PUT in the top and coming out the bottom.

Science access point: track objects in motion.

We used the mixer again to mix it all up and the mousse formed pretty quickly.

We counted out cups for each student. They requested some mousse and then we added some toppings.

Each student got just a little bit of whipped cream. They had to request MORE or indicate that they were ALL DONE. We did the same with the strawberries.

This was a great chocolatey treat!

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

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Mar1

Greece

Posted on March 1, 2020 by jd785

Greece

One of our families recently took a trip to Greece—–how cool is that! Our sensory groups explored boxes related to Greek history and culture. The fine motor groups practiced cutting skills while making their art projects. The language group celebrated Apokries, a Greek carnival, by having a parade and street dance!

SENSORY GROUP

The ancient Greeks gave us zodiac constellations, some of which could be found on our starry night sky umbrella.

The twinkling lights, dangling planets, and colorful pictures were all so eye catching!

Science access point: recognize a space related object.

Touring ancient Greek ruins is a must for any tourist!

The students made their own buildings using some wooden blocks. We also included a small rake so they could look for any hidden ancient relics!

Science access point: recognize that pushing or pulling makes an object move.

Blue and white are the colors of the Greek flag.

Beads, whether worn, grabbed by handfuls, or sorted—-so much fun!

Science access point: identify objects by one observable property, such as color.

The ancient Greeks invented the Olympic games!

The students twisted colorful chenille stems into olympic rings—–or other pretty inventive sculptures 🙂

Science access point: recognize that pushing and pulling an object makes it move.

Letter G’s could be found in blue and white rice.

There was a map of the Greek islands at the bottom of the box.

Science access point: match objects with similar observable properties, such as shape.

This box contained symbols of Greece, including an owl, laurel leaves, and foods grown there. We also put in some things that you might need while touring around—-such as a backpack, sunglasses, and camera.

There was even recorded some traditional Greek music on a voice output device.

Science access point: recognize a model of a real object.

The students swirled shaving cream clouds around Mount Olympus.

Messy play is so much fun!

Science access point: apply a push to move an object.

Since Greece has so many islands, we put in a small fishing boat in our water.

There was also a dolphin which is a symbol of Greece and 2 small fish to catch.

Science access point: match common living things with their habitats.

We chose Bath and Body Works juniper for the scent this week.

Junipers are shrubs that grow in Greece!

Science access point: recognize one or more external body parts.

FINE MOTOR GROUP

On Tuesday, the students made their own ancient Greek temple!

First, the students identified triangle and rectangle shapes.

Math access point: recognize a common object with a two-dimensional shape.

Then, they used cutting tools to cut out their “building blocks”.

Science access point: recognize a change in the external appearance of an object.

The students glued their blocks down on a background paper to assemble their temples.

It didn’t matter how the temples were assembled—-they were supposed to by ancient ruins anyway 🙂

Math access point: recognize when an object is added to a situation.

TA DA!!!!!

Let’s visit Greece!

On Wednesday we made some Greek flags to use as decoration for our upcoming Apokries festival.

First, they identified the color blue and a rectangle—there are lots of rectangles in the Greek flag.

Science access point: identify objects by one observable property, such as color.

Math access point: recognize an object with a two-dimensional shape.

Next, the students cut 4 strips of white paper. They used regular scissors, switch operated scissors, or paper cutters depending on their ability.

Math access point: associate quantities with number names.

They glued their long white stripes on to the blue background paper.

Math access point: recognize length of objects, such as long or short.

Then, a pre-made cross was placed at the TOP LEFT corner of their flag.

Math access point: recognize a movement that reflects a spatial relationship.

TA DA!!!!

It is festival time—–kales yiortes (happy feasts!

We love Greece!

LANGUAGE GROUP

We love our parties here at school and this one was no exception!

The Greek festival Apokries is celebrated at this time of year.

Our language group students dressed up in togas and we paraded through the halls with traditional Greek music and the students playing tambourines.

They all looked so cute!

The parade goers had a great time watching their friends parade in their Greek attire.

Everyone had so much fun!

Of course, after the parade everyone was invited to a “street” dance in the hall.

We made our own version of the Parthenon and our students and staff got to dance and socialize.

We had treats set out with sentence strips so that our students could request what they wanted.

The sentence strips were modeled and our students imitated. They got to choose from cookies, applesauce, chips, and blue Gatorade.

Not very Greek, but preferred by our students 🙂

We had so much fun! Took lots of pictures and danced the day away. Opa!

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

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Feb23

Jack And The Beanstalk

Posted on February 23, 2020 by jd785

Jack And The Beanstalk

We chose a fun theme this week and did our own take on the classic fairy tale! The sensory group explored boxes with a variety of textures. The fine motor groups crafted art projects based on characters in the story and the language group made a recipe————-using beans, of course 🙂

SENSORY GROUP

Our colorful box of “magic beans” contained letter B’s—-both upper and lower case.

The students loved running their hands through the beans and the colors were so eye catching.

Science access point: match objects by an observable property, such as size, shape, or color.

There were all sorts of cows roaming in this field of green rice. We even included magnets that spelled the word COW!

There was also a picture of a cow to find at the bottom of the box.

Science access point: recognize a model of a real object.

An umbrella was turned into a beanstalk—-complete with a giant peeking out!

We were pretty happy with the effect we achieved.

Science access point: recognize objects related to science by name such as animal, and plant.

There were 5 golden eggs and lots of golden beads along with a cute plush goose in this box!

So cute!

Math access point: associate quantities with number names.

We wanted to reinforce the concepts of BIG and SMALL so in this box we added some big fluffy ball and some small spiked balls.

The different textures were really intriguing to the students.

Math access point: recognize differences in size of objects.

We put a green accordion tube and some silk leaves into a cloud of shaving cream so students could make their own bean stalks.

They had a blast!

Science access point: recognize that pushing and pulling an object makes it move.

There was a small cup and big watering can in the water play.

The students loved watching the water stream from the spout of the watering can!

Science access point: track objects in motion.

Bath and Body Works rain kissed leaves seemed a good choice for our scent this week.

Whether rubbed on arms or behind ears, the students loved the aroma.

Science access point: recognize one or more external body parts.

FINE MOTOR GROUP

On Tuesday the students stamped some golden eggs using this template: goose

First, the students identified an oval.

They did a really great job!

Math access point: recognize an object with a two-dimensional shape.

Next, they glued their goose on to the back ground paper.

Math access point: recognize when an object is added to a situation.

Then, they stamped some golden eggs!

We made the stamp by cutting ovals from extra thick craft foam and sticking the shapes to kitchen scrubbers.

Math access point: recognize a movement that reflects a spatial relationship.

TA—we are rich—- Da!

We found the goose that lays the golden eggs!

On Wednesday, we made bean stalks! This template was used in the project: castle

First, the students identified the color of the yarn. Everyone picked the correct color!!!!

Science access point: identify objects by one observable property, such as color.

Then, the students wrapped the yarn around a paper towel tube.

Science access point: recognize that pushing or pulling an object makes it move.

Next, they added leaves to their bean stalks.

Math access point: recognize when an object is added to a situation.

The beanstalk was topped off by a castle in the clouds—made by gluing polyfil and paper castle to a poster board circle.

TA—fie fi fo fum— DA!!!

Looks like our magic beans worked!

LANGUAGE GROUP

We made some bean dip that we think Jack would really enjoy! Here’s the recipe: Let’s Make Jack’s Bean Dip

We started out by mixing together sour cream and a dry ranch packet. The student who WANTED to HELP was given the unopened packet of dry ranch. Since she wasn’t able to open it by herself, she was prompted to ask for HELP.

Students located the STIR communication symbol on their boards and HELPED to STIR the ingredients together.

Each student requested their own bowl to put their dip together in. They were given some refried beans and were told to SPREAD them out on the bottom of their bowls.

Then, each student had to request the sour cream/ranch dip. Again, they had to SPREAD it ON TOP of the beans.

Next, they PUT diced tomatoes ON TOP of the ranch dip. Some students were given just a few pieces. If that was not enough to their liking, they had to request MORE.

We PUT some black olives ON TOP of the tomatoes. Again, if it was not enough, students had to indicate they WANTED MORE.

When asked if there were any ingredients that they saw on the communication boards that had not been used yet, students had to LOOK at their boards and locate the picture of cheese.

Once the bean dip was all layered and ready, students had to request chips.

Students were prompted to SCOOP the dip with the chips; however, lots of them chose to eat the dip with their spoon instead 🙂

We really had so much fun this week! Join us again next time for more fun and learning—–Group by Group!

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Feb16

Fun Facts About Presidents

Posted on February 16, 2020 by jd785

Fun Facts About Presidents

Since Presidents Day is coming up, we thought it would be fun to learn about some of our past Presidents. The sensory groups explored boxes related to presidents featured in our book. The fine motor groups made art projects featuring presidents and the language group made a patriotic treat!

SENSORY GROUP

President Kennedy’s family came from Ireland.

The students used a big cookie cutter to make shamrocks—-a symbol of Ireland—-out of bright green play dough.

Science access point: apply a push to move an object.

President Obama was born in Hawaii.

This eye catching box was filled with colorful flowers, leis, and a cute little Hawaiian doll.

Science access point: recognize objects as the same.

President Theodore Roosevelt once saved a bear cub and teddy bears are named after him!

The piece of faux bear fur, a big mama bear, and 2 little bear cubs here were a hit with the students.

Science access point: match animals that are the same.

President Ronald Reagan used to be a movie actor and then the Governor of California.

The numbers 4 and 0 could be found in this box of popcorn—-Reagan was our 40th president!

Math access point: associate quantities with number names.

President Eisenhower loved to cook and was known for his cornmeal pancakes!

Soft cornmeal (mixed with some potato flakes to decrease the dust), 2 different sized spoons, and a picture of the Eisenhower at the bottom could be found in this box.

Math access point: recognize differences in size of common objects.

Ice cream was one of George Washington’s favorite treats! We sprinkled jello powder into the shaving cream to get an ice cream look.

Needless to say, the students had a blast!

Science access point: recognize that pushing and pulling an object makes it move.

John Quincy Adams had a pet alligator—-how cool is that!

We put a little alligator in our water play this week, along with 2 different sized measuring cups.

Math access point: recognize differences in sizes of containers that hold liquids.

We chose Bath and Body Works cherry blossom for our scent this week. President Taft’s wife planted the first cherry blossom trees in Washington DC.

It was a great scent to help us remember all the fun facts about Presidents!

Science access point: recognize one or more external body parts.

FINE MOTOR GROUP

On Tuesday we made dimes out of paper plates.

First, the students identified the shape of the paper plate.

Math access point: recognize a common object with a two-dimensional shape.

Then, the students painted their plates with silver paint.

Science access point: recognize that pushing and pulling an object makes it move.

Next, the students added a picture of President Franklin Roosevelt! We used a coloring page from the US mint printed on grey paper.

Math access point: recognize when an object is added to a situation.

TA DA!!!!

We made dimes!

Anybody need some spare change 🙂

On Wednesday the students made MORE money 🙂 We found some cute samples we could download for free.

First, the students identified the shape of the money.

Math access point: recognize a common object with a two-dimensional shape.

Then, they cut the money into individual bills using a variety of cutting tools.

Math access point: solve simple problems involving taking apart small quantities of objects.

Next, they used markers to add color to their bills.

Science access point: recognize a change in the external appearance of an object.

TA DA!!!!

Look at all the Presidents!

Let’s go shopping!!!

LANGUAGE GROUP

This week, we made a patriotic treat for President’s Day. Here’s the recipe that we used: Let’s Make A Patriotic Snack

We started out by making the whipped cream. One of our students HELPED measure out 1 cup of heavy whipping cream. They had to LOOK to see if there was enough in the measuring cup or if we needed MORE. Then we PUT that in the bowl.

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

Next, we had to measure out powdered sugar and vanilla extract. Students had to identify the tablespoon when it was held next to the teaspoon. They were prompted to find the BIGGER one.