Tag Archives: art

Oct13

Vermont

Posted on October 13, 2019 by jd785

October 12 is National Vermont Day! Our sensory groups explored boxes related to facts about the state. The fine motor groups crafted symbols of Vermont and the language group made a tasty treat inspired by the state fruit!

SENSORY GROUP

Lots to discover here, such as items that were related to various industries, including dairy, sheep, and lumber found in Vermont. Ben and Jerry’s ice cream and IBM are also located there!

The little lamb puppet was a big hit.

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

InstaSnow looks and feels like the real thing so we made our own Vermont winter wonderland!

We had one BIG and one SMALL scoop as well as a small shove—all for scooping fun!

Math access point: recognize differences in size of objects.

Apple pie is the state food of Vermont!

We made apple pie scented play dough and added a circle cookie cutter, decorative wheel, and a plate so the students could make their own pies!

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

We found out that two presidents, Chester Arthur and Grover Cleveland, were from Vermont——how cool is that!

For this box, we used our patriotic rice. There were pictures of the presidents underneath and 4 letter V’s to find.

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

John Deere came from Vermont and this box is dedicated to him! There was a big green tractor and some carrots to plant in the box of play dirt.

The play dirt has a really cool texture and was fun to pack down while rolling the tractor over it.

Science access point: track the movement of objects that are pushed or pulled.

Vermont is known for its maple syrup! We made our oobleck more slime like this week to get that syrupy consistency.

Brown and yellow food coloring were used in an attempt to get that maple syrup color—-we are not sure we succeeded lol but fortunately the students didn’t mind 🙂

Science access point: track objects in motion.

Brook trout and Walleye are state fish. The two little fish found in our water play lake weren’t very realistic looking, but still fun to catch!

There were also two different sized measuring cups for scooping fun.

Science access point: recognize differences in objects.

Bath and Body Works vanilla sugar has a scent similar to maple syrup. We used it in our water and lotion this week.

Rubbed on necks, arms, hands, or ears—-it left our students smelling especially yummy this week!

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

FINE MOTOR GROUP

On Tuesday we made green mountains—-Vermont is known as the Green Mountain State!

First, we identified the shape and color of our mountain.

Math access point: recognize a two-dimensional shape.

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

Then, the students used paper cutters and switch operated scissors to cut their triangles.

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

The triangle mountains and title were glued down on to a blue background paper.

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

TA DA!!!

Let’s visit Vermont!

On Wednesday we made maple trees!

First, we identified the paint colors we were using.

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

Next, we counted out 4 leaves (precut using the Ellison machine).

Math access point: associate quantities with number names.

We put drops of each of our colors on the leaves and the students began painting.

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

The students glued the leaves ON their trees (drawn by one of our fabulous volunteers!)

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

TA DA!!!

The leaves are changing colors….

……welcome to fall in Vermont!

LANGAUAGE GROUP

Since apples are the state fruit of Vermont and the state pie is apple pie, we decided to make apple pie in a cup! Here is the recipe we used: Let’s Make Apple Pie In A Cup

We started by making some homemade whipped cream. We measured out some heavy whipping cream. We observed that it was a liquid.

Each student then got to help TURN on the mixer. The whipped cream took some time to firm up, so after each student’s turn, we LOOKED in the bowl to see if we needed to mix MORE or if we were ALL DONE.

Once some peaks were forming, we added some vanilla and confectioners’ sugar. The students had to identify the BIGGER measuring spoon when a teaspoon and a tablespoon were presented to them. Once the ingredients were in, our students mixed AGAIN.

When the whipped cream was ALL DONE, we put it aside and started on our apple pie cups. Each student got one graham cracker in a bag and they had to crush it up.

They did this lots of different ways and had some fun with it 🙂

When the crackers were crushed up, they put them IN their cup. Next, they had to request diced apples. If they weren’t given very many, they had to request MORE.

We topped that off with 2 spoonfuls of cinnamon applesauce. Each student had to count out their spoonfuls to make sure they got the correct amount.

Finally, we topped it off with our whipped cream.

An easy, healthy, and delicious way to celebrate Vermont Day!

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

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Oct5

We Love Science

Posted on October 5, 2019 by jd785

We Love Science

This week our theme complements our students’ Unique Curriculum unit for the month. Our sensory groups explored boxes related to different science fields. The fine motor groups made science themed art projects and the language group performed some science experiments!

SENSORY GROUP

This box focused on Meteorology—the study of weather.

We had all the elements for a thunderstorm with a rainstick, fan, and thunder tube.

The rainstick was a hit!!!

Science access point: recognize different types of weather conditions.

Entomologists study bugs! There were all sorts of bugs to find in this box of slime.

The bright pink color was especially eye catching!

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

Ok, they were REALLY intrigued by this box so we HAD to add more photos 🙂

Since plants grow from seeds we thought a box full would be perfect for a box about botany! The students always love running their hands through the seeds—they have a really cool feel! Yes, they get everywhere but SO worth it 🙂

Hidden in the seeds were yellow and green fruits and vegetables.

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

The students became little paleontologists digging for dinosaur bones in kinetic sand.

Two dinosaur molds were also included.

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

Our space themed umbrella was a big hit. There were stars, planets, and a rocket ship to find!

We recorded an actual NASA countdown and rocket launch on a voice output device.

Science access point: recognize a space themed object.

Oobleck lava flowed down a laminated volcano in our messy play. So despite the fact that our “lava” ended up looking more like peppermint syrup, the students still had fun 🙂

Bath crackles added a fun sound element here.

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

The kinds of animals an oceanographer might study, including sharks and an octopus, were found in our water play.

We also included two different sized scoops.

Science access point: match living things with their habitats.

The oceanography theme was continued with Bath and Body Works ocean lotion. We also used the bath gel for our water.

Our students are really doing a great job using the communication boards to tell us where to apply the lotion!

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

FINE MOTOR GROUP

On Tuesday the students painted with corn syrup. We used this template: beaker

First, we identified the shape of our background paper.

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

The students painted their paper beakers using corn syrup tinted with blue food coloring.

We have done this technique before and always love the results!

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

TA DA!!!

Our science experiment is ready!

What did we just discover!!!!

On Wednesday we used our beaker template again but this time we painted with marbles.

First, we counted how many marbles we were going to use.

Math access point: associate quantities with number names.

Then, we scooped the marbles from the paint cups and put them IN the box.

Math access point: identify spatial relationships.

With the lid secure, it was time to SHAKE SHAKE SHAKE those marbles. We changed our glitter song words slightly and of course, lots of giggles ensued 🙂

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

TA DA!!!

Our experiments are ready!

We LOVE science!!!!!!!

LANGUAGE GROUP

We became scientists this week and did some experiments of our own. Of course, like real science experiments, they don’t always work out how you thought they would!

The first experiment we did was Fizzy Colors. We started by having a student request to HELP POUR a box of baking soda onto a tray.

The box was given to her and after she tried and could not open it herself, she was prompted to ask for HELP.

Our students poured some in. We checked the box and saw there was MORE to POUR so another student got to HELP.

After the baking soda was emptied, we had 4 DIFFERENT students HELP PUT some food coloring all over the baking soda.

We started with 10 drops of each color (red, blue, yellow, green) but found that more color had more of a reaction.

Finally, the fun part! Each student got to smell some vinegar–the faces indicated whether they liked it or not 🙂

Finally, the fun part! Each student had a TURN to drop some vinegar on the food coloring using droppers.

So much fun watching it bubble up! Again, more color and more vinegar results in more fun!

For the next experiment, we made Elephant Toothpaste. We started inside by pouring some hydrogen peroxide into a water bottle (teachers did this part). The hydrogen peroxide has to be at least 6%. We found, after looking in several places, that it is best to order this as it’s difficult to find.

We wanted to make 2 DIFFERENT elephant toothpaste experiments so we had our students choose which 2 colors we would make them. Each student voted on the color they WANTED and the top 2 colors were used: yellow and blue. Our school colors!

We added about 15-20 drops of coloring into each bottle and watched as the liquid inside changed colors.

Then we PUT some dish soap in, closed the bottles, and swished them around.

Next, we PUT 3 tbsp of warm water and one packet of dry yeast into a cup and stirred it up until it had a milky texture to it. We did this twice since we were making double the recipe.

Now for the experiment! We went outside because we had read that this can get messy.

We POURED the yeast mix into the hydrogen peroxide mix and watched what happened.

Not the result we expected so we may have to try this one again sometime. We found that sometimes, experiments don’t always go as planned 🙂

This whole unit was a blast—–we had so much fun and learned we really do LOVE science!

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

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Sep27

Go Team Go

Posted on September 27, 2019 by jd785

Go Team Go

It’s all about college football this week! Our sensory groups explored football themed boxes. The fine motor groups made football art projects and the language group made a yummy tailgating snack!

SENSORY GROUP

A variety of football themed objects could be found in this box including a football, small helmet, cheerleading megaphone, colorful beads, and plush mascot toys!

We also recorded a marching band on a voice output device.

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

Green rice became a grassy football field this week. There were 2 football players, one of which was a Smurf—–hey you have to go with what you find on the giveaway table 🙂

We also put in some numbers to find. There was a picture of a football field at the bottom of the box.

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

Students sorted green and orange pompoms. Those just happen to be the colors of some of our favorite football teams including Ms. Joi’s favorite—– University of Miami and Ms. Reva’s FAMU!

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

Red is one of the colors found on a lot of team uniforms, including FSU and UGA!

The students used cookie cutters in the shapes of a t-shirt or football to cut out some colorful shapes.

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

The students had fun bringing out their inner cheerleader with this box of colorful pompoms!

There were LOTS of giggles with these 🙂

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

There was a gator crawling around a jello swamp this week. Joy and Cara just couldn’t resist a plug for their favorite team—-Go Gators 🙂

Numbers 1-10 could be found at the bottom of the box.

Math access point: associate quantities with number names.

Water was scented with Old Spice bath gel which seemed a good sporty choice to go along with our theme this week.

There was a measuring cup and sifting scooper to be found in the water. They worked well for scooping up the big letter “F” for football and little tiger—-Auburn’s team mascot.

Science access point: track objects in motion.

It was a little hard coming up with a scent this week but we finally settled on a soda scent since drinking soda is something people do at football games.

We used a Coca Cola lip balm—–using it on wrists or behind ears, NOT lips of course!

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

FINE MOTOR GROUP

On Tuesday the students used paint to create footballs using this template: football

First, we identified the shape of a football.

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

Then, they stamped UP and DOWN using a bubble wrapped kitchen scrubber.

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

Some laces were added and the football was glued down on to a green background.

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

TA DA!!!!

We’re ready for some FOOTBALL!!

On Wednesday the students made footballs out of paper grocery bags. We used our football template again for this project.

First, the students identified the shape of the football.

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

Then, they stuffed the footballs with handfuls of paper shred.

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

After adults stapled the top of the ball, the students glued laces on to their ball.

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

TA DA!

GO TEAM GO!!!!

LANGUAGE GROUP

We put together a yummy treat that could be eaten while tailgating or watching the game at home! Here is the recipe that we used: Let’s Make Party Chip Dip

We started out by measuring out some sour cream in a measuring cup. We had a student HELP PUT it in the BOWL.

Next, we had to measure out some Ranch dressing mix. Our students had to identify the LITTLE tablespoon when compared to the measuring cup.

Once that was PUT in the BOWL, we measured out some bacon bits. Since we had to measure out 3 tablespoons, 3 of our students got to HELP PUT them in the bowl.

Finally, we had to measure out some cheddar cheese to PUT in the bowl.

We observed the bowl and our students had to indicate that we had MORE to do. We needed to STIR the ingredients all up. We talked about how we had to use a SPOON to STIR.

Once we were ALL DONE, each student had to request a plate and some dip. Then they had to request chips. If they weren’t given enough, they indicated that they WANTed MORE.

A pretty easy and yummy dip 🙂

Hope you have fun cheering on your favorite team this weekend! Join us again next time for fun and learning—–Group by Group!

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Sep22

Which Dora the Explorer Character Can I Be?

Posted on September 22, 2019 by jd785

Which Dora the Explorer Character Can I Be?

With the new Dora movie coming out, we are learning about the characters. The sensory group explored colorful boxes related to characters from the series. The fine motor groups made art projects inspired by characters and the language group went on a treasure hunt!

SENSORY GROUP

We found out that Dora came from Mexico so this box had rice in the colors of the Mexican flag—-red, green, and white! There were characters to go UNDER, AROUND, and THROUGH obstacles in this box.

Letters spelling D O R A could also be found as well as a map at the bottom of the box—so much to explore and discover!

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

A purple backpack is a character in the series. The students used plastic facial features to make faces in purple Bubber.

Of course, it was also fun to run fingers through Bubber’s silky texture.

Science access point: recognize the human body is made up of various parts.

In this box there were lots of items related to Dora including a backpack, compass, flowers, and a treasure box.

We also recorded the Dora theme song on a voice output device which got some of our students really moving and grooving 🙂

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

Instead of a box we used a purple backpack to hold 2 discovery bottles 🙂 One bottle contained Dora characters and the other bottle had animals—-like the ones her cousin Diego saves!

These bottles were really intriguing to the students. Also, just in case you were wondering—we hot glue the lids closed to deter curious hands.

Science access point: match objects by an observable property such as shape.

It was fun to put the bottles in and out of the backpack!

Dora’s friend Bennie wears a colorful striped vest. There were lots of stripes—-of the colorful chenille type in this box. The students could line them up, twist them around, drape them over the box……

………..or hang them on a friend’s arm 🙂

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

Since Dora travels around the world we used a laminated picture of earth for our messy play.

The students swirled around fluffy shaving cream clouds!

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

Hands were rinsed under a waterfall made by a splitting water wheel.

This was a HIT!!!

Science access point: initiate a change in motion of an object.

Our lotion this week had a nice fruity aroma. We chose mango mandarin from Bath and Body Works because those fruits are grown in Mexico.

Our students are smelling really yummy this week!

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

FINE MOTOR GROUP

On Tuesday the students made a fox mask! We used purchased eye masks and this template: fox

First, we counted the eye holes in each mask.

Math access point: associate quantities with number names.

Then, the students used popsicle sticks to scrape the black overlay to reveal rainbow colors underneath.

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

We finished by gluing the rainbow mask onto the fox mask and…..

…………..TA DA!!!

Can you guess which Dora character we are pretending to be?

On Wednesday the students made backpacks out of tissue boxes we covered with white paper!

First, the students chose which color marker for their backpack.

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

They used markers to decorate their backpacks—–some of the students used a switch to operate their drawing tools!

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

Time to add a one nose, one mouth, and………….

………….. TWO big googly eyes!

Math access point: associate quantities with number names.

We taped some paper straps to the back of our backpack boxes.

TA DA!!!

Let’s go explore!!!!!!!!

LANGUAGE GROUP

We changed it up in our language group today. Instead of making a yummy treat, we went in search of one! We used a map, just like Dora, to look for our treasure. We had to make sure and follow all of the directions on the map.

We saw on the map that the classroom was where we start. Our students looked at the map to see where they had to go next: THROUGH the tunnel!

We really love this tunnel because it’s big enough for our kiddos in wheelchairs 🙂

Next, we had to go out of the gate and around the front of the school.

Then we had to figure out which was the right gate to go into. Our students had to compare the gates to see which one matched the one in the picture on the map.

Once we went through the DIFFERENT gate, our students had to step on the circles that were down the hall. Our ambulatory students got to step ON padded circles that squeaked while our wheelchair friends had to go OVER their circles.

One of our volunteers stepped on the padded circles as our wheelchair friends went by.

We had to check the map again to find WHERE to go next!

Next, we saw on the map that we had to find where the fish were.

Each student had to catch ONE fish before we could go on to the next and final step: the treasure!

Students had to look at the map one last time to find the treasure box.

They opened it and found………..yummy Golden cookies!!

Hope you enjoyed exploring with us this week! Join us next time for more fun and learning—–Group by Group!

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Sep14

Puerto Rico

Posted on September 14, 2019 by jd785

Puerto Rico

It is Hispanic Heritage Month and we are learning about Puerto Rico. The sensory groups explored boxes related to facts about the country. The fine motor groups made colorful crafts and the language group hosted a Carnaval de Ponce!

SENSORY GROUP

We put the letters P and R in red, white, and blue rice—–the colors of the Puerto Rican flag.

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

There were lots of different things associated with Puerto Rico in this flower filled box including animals and foods grown there. There was a big white star like the one on the flag and the words HOME and FAMILY.

We also put in photos of famous Puerto Ricans and a voice output with a recording of a Ricky Martin song 🙂

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

The students stamped stars like the one found on the Puerto Rico flag.

The moon sand we used for this box has such a nice soft texture the students loved!

Math access point: recognize differences in size of objects.

Gold can be found in the rivers of Puerto Rico. The students loved exploring or wearing the shiny gold beads!

So much fun!

They were fascinated by the swirling gold glitter in the discovery bottle.

This box was a hit 🙂

Science access point: track objects in motion.

Puerto Rico is known for beautiful beaches. There were sea shells to find and sand castles to build in our kinetic sand beach.

This is one of our favorite materials ever!!!

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

Coconuts can be found in Puerto Rico so our oobleck became “coconut milk” this week—-what fun!

Goopy and drippy as usual 🙂

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

We put a boat and different size fish in our water play since Puerto Rico is an island.

Both the fish squirted water which made them extra fun!

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

Puerto Rico is known as the Land of Enchantment so we used Bath and Body Works “be enchanted” scent for our bath gel and lotion.

Whether placed on hands, arms, neck, or behind ears it was a hit!

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

FINE MOTOR GROUP

On Tuesday the students made Puerto Rican flags.

First, the students identified the shapes found on the flag—-star, triangle, and rectangle!

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

Next, they cut strips of red paper and glued them on to a piece of white paper.

The students used a variety of cutting tools.

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

They were asked to glue their 3 strips to the TOP, BOTTOM, and MIDDLE of their papers.

Math access point: associate quantities with number names.

Then they added a pre-cut triangle and big white star.

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

TA DA!!

Let’s visit Puerto Rico!

On Wednesday we made Ponce Carnival masks using this template: Ponce mask

First, the students put glue on their masks using a glue stick.

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

Then, they chose which color glitter they wanted to use on their mask.

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

We added glitter——and sang our glitter song of course. For those new to us, the glitter song is our take on that old KC and the Sunshine band song. It goes like this: shake, shake, shake, shake, shake, shake, shake that glitter, shake that glitter! Repeat as many times as needed 🙂

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

TA DA!!!

We are ready for the Ponce parade!

LANGUAGE GROUP

There is a week-long celebration in Puerto Rico called the Carnaval de Ponce which is similar to Mardi Gras. There are parades and parties. We decided to have a social get together for the beginning of the year by having a Ponce celebration!

The language group used the masks they made earlier in the week as their costumes for the parade. They also got to wear colorful ponchos and costumes 🙂

Our students paraded through the halls……

……the crowds cheered!

We passed out beads and smiles………

………to the spectators.

After the parade, we all congregated for a “street party” in the hallways. Students got to socialize and listen to authentic Puerto Rican music.

We had so much fun dancing to the music!

Of course, what’s a party without snacks? For our party-goers we had some goldfish (Puerto Rico is an island after all), some coconut Oreos (lots of coconut in Puerto Rico), and some juice. We had sentence strips out so that students could request what they wanted.

What a great party!

It was a great week and we want to give a shout out to our fabulous volunteers who helped make everything possible.

Don’t forget to check your SPAM folder for your confirmation email if you want to follow us and join us again next time for more fun and learning——Group by Group!

Sep6

Let’s Go On A Safari

Posted on September 6, 2019 by jd785

Let’s Go On A Safari

We are going on safari—-it is our school wide theme this year! The sensory groups explored animal themed boxes and the fine motor groups made animal themed art projects. The language group made a tasty animal themed treat!

SENSORY GROUP

This box contained safari themed items such as a toy camera, hat, sunglasses, jeep, compass, and a variety of toy animals.

Of course, the students had fun trying on the props 🙂

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

Our bright colorful “tiger” rice was very eye catching. It might just be our favorite!

There were 3 camouflaged tigers to find in the rice!

Math access point: associate quantities with number names.

There were lots of animals, including monkeys, butterflies, lizards, bees, and bird to find in our jungle themed umbrella.

We also included a sloth hand puppet and a voice output with jungle sounds.

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

Yellow and brown pom pom’s filled this giraffe themed box.

Whether just feeling their soft texture or sorting by color, the students really enjoyed this.

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

More eye catching colors could be found in our butterfly and caterpillar pasta box.

There were a variety of other butterflies to find.

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

The students mixed yellow food coloring with shaving cream to make a fluffy mane for the laminated lion in our messy play.

Our lion ended up with some pretty wild hair 🙂

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

Hands were rinsed in a little lake containing a crocodile and hippo.

Two different sized measuring cups were included for scooping fun.

Science access point: match living things with their habitats.

We are using up the last of our banana scented lotion with this unit. PLEASE start stocking it again World Market 🙂

Whether placed on hands, arms, neck, or behind ears, this lotion was a hit!

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

FINE MOTOR GROUP

On Tuesday the students made paper bag zebras.

First, they identified the paint color.

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

Next, they used a fun patterned roller to add stripes to their zebras.

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

Then, they added a nose, ears, eyes, and a cool mohawk cut from scrap paper.

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

TA DA!!

Some zany zebras!

Quick—–take a picture!!!

On Wednesday we made sunset safari pictures.

First, the students identified the paint color.

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

Next, the students tore pieces of colorful tissue paper. The students really had fun with this part 🙂

Science access point: recognize a change in an object.

Then, they used paint brushes to spread glue over the yellow background paper and patted down strips of tissue paper on to the glue.

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

Elephants were added by stamping UP and DOWN.

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

TA— trumpety trump— DA!!

We saw a herd of elephants.

What fabulous safari pictures!

LANGUAGE GROUP

We made a yummy safari treat this week in our language group. Here is the recipe that we used: Let’s Make A Zebra Striped Parfait Disclaimer: we changed it a little bit by using 2 boxes of mix rather than 1 and using 3 cups of milk instead of 2 due to the amount of kiddos we had.

We started out by PUTTING white chocolate pudding mix into a bowl. Students who said they would HELP were given the pudding mix box. We waited for a few seconds while the students tried to open the boxes. After they were unable to open the boxes themselves, they were prompted to ask for HELP from staff.

Once the boxes were open, the mix was poured into the bowl.

Next, each student got to touch the milk. They indicated whether it felt COLD or HOT.

Science access point: recognize objects or materials as warm or cold.

Since we used 3 cups, 2 DIFFERENT students got to HELP. We first measured out 2 cups. The students were then asked how many MORE cups we needed to add.

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

Once the pudding mix and milk were in the bowl, each student got to HELP mix it up.

After each student, we LOOKED at the bowl to see if the pudding was ALL DONE or if we needed to mix it MORE.

When the pudding was ALL DONE, we set it aside. Each student got a bag with 3 Oreo cookies. Students had to make sure they each had the correct amount. Then, they got to SMASH their cookies into pieces.

We used an ice cream scoop as a hammer and it worked perfectly!

Math access point: associate quantities with number names.

Each student had to indicate that they WANTED some pudding in their CUP. Then, they each added HALF of the Oreos and repeated the pudding and Oreos again.

TaDa! A yummy zebra striped treat 🙂

Hope you enjoyed the safari! Join us next time for more fun and learning—–Group by Group!

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Aug30

We Had A Great Summer

Posted on August 30, 2019 by jd785

We Had A Great Summer

We are back and this become a little tradition of ours; we are beginning the school year with a summer themed post highlighting what staff did over the summer. The sensory groups explored boxes related to the different places staff visited. The fine motor groups practiced their cutting skills and the language group made a refreshing summer treat!

SENSORY GROUP

Ms. Joi’s dad celebrated a milestone birthday this summer and we continued the celebration with birthday cake cloud dough 🙂 We added two cookie cutters to stamp the number 70.

Math access point: associate quantities with number names.

An astronaut, rocket ship, and stars could be found in our “spacey” black beans. Ms. Judi visited NASA with her family.

The rocket was a BIG hit!

Science access point: recognize a space related object.

Ms. Robin cruised around the British Virgin Islands so we put a flag banner and little boat in this box.

The boat was pretty much ignored—-waving the banner around was way more fun 🙂

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

Our yellow and green rice represented the colors of Brazil—-Ms. Maria vacationed there. There were 3 letter B’s and a picture of the Brazilian flag to find.

This colorful rice was very eye catching!

Science access point: recognize objects as the same.

Ms. Danni visited Iceland! Our kinetic sand was just like the black sand beach she saw there.

Fish molds added to the fun for our students.

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

There were some laminated pieces to build castles in green Floam in this box. Ms. Joy got to see lots of castles while visiting the Scottish Highlands.

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

Dolphins and other fish swam around in our mini version of Discovery Cove. Ms. Ashley and her children got to swim with the dolphins there—-how cool is that!!!!

Our students were pretty intrigued with the dolphin and puffer fish toys.

Science access point: match living things with their habitats.

We used Sunset by the Pool Bath and Body Works lotion for our scent this week since it seemed the perfect reminder of summer fun 🙂

This scent was a hit!

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

FINE MOTOR GROUP

On Tuesday, the students made a camping scene using this template: tent

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

Math access point: recognize objects with two dimensional shapes.

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

Then, they stamped silver stars on their paper—-to look like a starry night sky.

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

The students cut the door opening of their tents. They had to be sure and STOP cutting at the end of the line.

Some of the students used switch operated scissors.

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

The tent flaps were folded back and glued to the paper with a photo of each student inside.

TA DA!!

Summer camping fun!

On Wednesday, the students made a fun summer memory using colorful craft stick frames.

First, the identified a square.

Math access point: recognize objects with two dimensional shapes.

Then, they used paper cutters to cut a squares out of old calendar pages. We counted the sides of the square as we trimmed it.

Math access point: recognize the sides of a square.

Next, they glued on a picture of themselves on fabulous tropical beach scenes.

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

TA DA!!!

Tropical Island fun!

We had a great summer!!

LANGUAGE GROUP

Because it’s still hot here, we decided to make a nice cool drink that we could enjoy during this heat. In honor of the watermelon festival that one of our staff members went to this summer, we are making watermelon lemonade! Here is the recipe we used: Let’s Make Watermelon Lemonade.

We started by measuring out 4 cups of chopped watermelon. We had a measuring cup that can hold 2 cups, so we talked about how we would have to measure the watermelon 2 times. We had 2 students HELP PUT the watermelon in the blender.

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

Next, we had to squeeze 4 lemons. Our students HELPED by pressing a switch to activate the juicer. We counted how many lemons we had squeezed. Each student got to smell and then taste a little bit of lemon. They got to say if they LIKED or did NOT LIKE the smell and also got to indicate that the lemon tasted SOUR.

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

After we poured the lemon juice into the blender, our students HELPED TURN the blender on by activating a switch.

Science access point: recognize that electrical systems must be turned on in order to work.

Once the watermelon and lemon juice was all mixed up, we poured it into a pitcher. Next, we added some water. Each student felt the jug of water. They had to indicate whether it felt HOT or COLD. We had to PUT 6 cups in, so 3 DIFFERENT students got to HELP.

Science access point: recognize objects or materials as warm or cold.

Finally, we added some sugar and stirred it all up until the sugar dissolved.

Science access point: recognize a common substance that dissolves in water.

Each student had to request some of the lemonade by indicating that they WANTED some.

Pretty good first treat of the year!

We are so happy to be back and are looking forward to all the exciting things we have planned for the year.

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

May19

Graduation

Posted on May 19, 2019 by jd785

Graduation

This is a bittersweet time of year for us—-the time we say goodbye to our graduating seniors. For our unit, we are focusing on all the fun aspects of graduation. The sensory groups explored boxes with lots of different textures and colors. The fine motor group art projects were all about shapes and the language group made a unique dessert!

SENSORY GROUP

We put a lot of fun items in this box, including an actual graduation cap! Also included were mylar balloons, play money, toy camera, phone, sunglasses, etc.

Always fun to see what intrigues each student.

Pomp and Circumstance was recorded on a voice output device.

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

The numbers 2 0 1 9 were found in colorful confetti rice.

At the bottom of the box was a picture of a cute owl in a cap and gown.

Math access point: associate quantities with number names.

This box was dedicated to our school mascot—–an owl!

There were 2 plush owls and a fluffy feather boa that reminded us of owl feathers.

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

Some graduates go on to college programs, so we represented that choice with a box of colorful cheerleader pompoms in the colors of nearby Universities.

So much fun to shake—-go team!

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

Parties are a part of graduation events and when you have a party there is usually CAKE! Our cloud dough was made using strawberry cake mix and it smelled SO good!

We put a small spoon and a larger measuring cup as well as toy whisk.

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

Keeping in the celebratory mood we added some colorful Mr. Bubble bath crackles into our oobleck.

The snap, crackle, and pop sounds were really fun!

Science access point: track objects in motion.

Some lucky graduates might get to go on a cruise! We put in a couple of little boats to float around a mini ocean. There were also some fun fishy bath toys and pool noodle pieces.

Coconut scented bath gel made for some aromatic bubbles!

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

Our scent this week is a follow up on the cruise experience and so we used a True Blue lotion called Tahiti Sweetie. We thought it would smell like coconut, but it turned out that it smelled like mango!

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

FINE MOTOR GROUP

On Tuesday, the students made decorative banners.

First, they identified a triangle using communication symbols.

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

Then, they used paper cutters, switch operated scissors, and regular scissors to cut out triangles.

Science access point: recognize a change in an object.

They used star stampers and glitter to decorate their triangles.

A little curling ribbon finished it off!

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

TA DA!!!

We celebrate our graduates!!!!!!

On Thursday, the students made graduation caps using paper bowls.

First, they identified the shape of their paper using communication symbols.

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

Then, they used markers to decorate their squares. We had previously cut the 8 inch squares out of poster board.

They could draw any design they wanted, but we did encourage them to use different colors.

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

Time to add a little glitter! Of course, we rocked out to our glitter song—-“shake, shake, shake, your glitter”! It is sung to tune of that old KC and the Sunshine Band song.

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

The square was glued to a paper bowl and the adults helped attach a tassel (pre-made using scrap yarn) and……..

…………TA DA!!!

It’s graduation time!!!!!

LANGUAGE GROUP

This week, we made some cute little edible diplomas! Here is the recipe that we used: Let’s Make Diploma S’mores

We started by counting out how many plates we needed. This recipe is a little different in that each student got to participate in each step of the recipe.

Each student had to request a small tortilla. They PUT that on their plate.

Next, they had to request some marshmallow fluff. Once they said they WANTED some, they had to SPREAD it around with a spoon. There were lots of comments about how sticky it was 🙂

Then, each student had to request some Nutella and they SPREAD that on top of the fluff.

We then had to ROLL up the tortilla to look like a rolled up diploma.

To finish it off, we used a strip of Twizzlers pull’n’peel and they had to TIE it around the tortilla. This was a little bit difficult for our students, so they had to make sure and ask for HELP if they needed it.

TADA!

A yummy (yet slightly messy) graduation treat 🙂

We still have an After Party post coming, but this is our last regular post of the school year. Hope you will be back in August to join us—–Group by Group!

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

Apr6

Where We Go On CBI

Posted on April 6, 2019 by jd785

Where We Go On CBI

Our older students have the opportunity to go out into the community on a regular basis to practice independent functioning, communication, social, and academic skills. We call this Community Based Instruction. Our sensory groups explored boxes related to the different community locations. The fine motor groups made some fun art projects and the language group made frozen treats you might buy while out and about!

SENSORY GROUP

Students used cookie cutters to stamp B U S into school bus yellow moon sand.

School buses are used to transport the students to their various CBI destinations.

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

Blue and white rice represented one of the most popular CBI locations—— Walmart! There was a picture of a bus and another of a Walmart store to find at the bottom of the box.

There were also two different sized spoons to use for scooping fun!

Math access point: recognize differences in size of objects.

Another popular location is the Publix grocery store. Here the students purchase food/snacks for themselves or classroom activities.

We put a variety of fun food items—–some of which made noise when squeezed!

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

When going shopping, the one thing you need is MONEY!

There were different play money coins to find buried in this box of multicolored beans.

Science access point: recognize coins as money.

Sometimes our students get to participate in sporting events—-such as bowling or basketball.

We thought that making balls out of bright yellow Floam would be a great representation of those activities.

Math access point: recognize a common three-dimensional object.

Messy play represented the Community Arts program. We put some drops of food coloring in the shaving foam and let our artistic students mix it together.

This was a lot of fun but made for some multi-coloring fingers when done 🙂

Science access point: recognize a change in an object.

Many of our parks have a lake or water feature. Our water feature contained the letters C B I to scoop up. We also included some fun scoops.

Messy hands sometimes made some very colorful rinsing water!

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

Bath and Body Works vanilla sugar scent reminded us of some yummy Publix cookies 🙂

It was definitely a hit!

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

FINE MOTOR GROUP

On Wednesday the students made a CBI map.

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

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

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

They used the black marker to scribble roads on their maps.

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

Next, they used a paper cutter or scissors to cut out some of the most popular CBI stops.

Science access point: recognize a change in an object.

They glued the pictures and a school bus (cut from the Ellison machine) on to their maps.

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

TA DA!!!

We are ready……..

……..let’s go on CBI.

On Thursday the students made chicken nuggets—-a favorite treat to pick up on CBI.

First, the students identified the number 3 and the shape of our plate.

Math access point: associate quantities of number names.

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

Next, we mixed some rice krispies into our paint to give it texture and painted our 3 nuggets.

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

Since it is nice to have a little dipping sauce, we tinted some corn syrup and dripped a little of that on to the nuggets 🙂

The corn syrup will dry to a glassy finish.

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

TA DA!!!

Chicken nuggets—-YUMMY!!!

LANGUAGE GROUP

Since shopping can tire us out, we made our own icees using this recipe: Let’s Make Strawberry Lemonade Icees

First we PUT 6 cups of ice into the blender. We talked about the ice being COLD and why it was cold.

Each student got to HELP PUT some ice in the blender.

Next, we PUT some water into the blender. We were going to TURN it on, but we saw that something was wrong.

Our students had to indicate that we needed the top on first. We turned it on to crush up the ice some.

Then, we added some lemonade mix. We observed that the color of our ice water was changing to a DIFFERENT color.

Finally, we PUT some strawberries with sugar into the blender. Time to mix it up!

Each student got to HELP press the switch to TURN on the blender.

Once it was ALL DONE, each student had to request an icee by indicating and/or saying WANT or DRINK. They would also have to indicate that they wanted MORE.

Students told us if they thought the drink tasted SWEET or SOUR.

These were very tasty! A good treat for all 🙂

It was a great week! Join us again next time for more fun and learning—–Group by Group!

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

Mar31

Green

Posted on March 31, 2019 by jd785

Green

Between the first day of spring and St. Patrick’s day, March is all about GREEN! Our sensory groups explored monochromatic boxes with lots of different textures. Our fine motor groups used green paint to complete their art projects and the language group made a tasty green treat!

SENSORY GROUP

This first box contained a variety of green objects including beads, a shaker pompom, plastic leaves, a toy lizard, shamrocks, and a cute green frog puppet.

There were lots of different things to explore!

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

Our green rice included some colorful contrasting beans. It was a very eye catching box with a real springtime feel! There were two different sized spoons for scooping fun.

There were also both upper and lower case letter G’s to find.

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

Using a cookie cutter, the students stamped letter G into bright green kinetic sand.

We also put in a fun dinosaur figure to find.

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

The students loved squeezing and crumbling this green Bubber.

We also included another cookie cutter——this time a shamrock!

Science access point: recognize a change in an object.

Our light box was very eye catching and a hit with the students.

We used a cut up green plastic file folder and hot glued it to the sides of a clear shoebox. The battery packs are attached to the lid with velcro.

Science access point: recognize sources of light.

Green oobleck was super fun to explore. The green food coloring did tint fingers a little——- but Hulk hands are pretty cool 🙂

We love messy fun!

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

Two different sized green scoops and a toy tugboat added to the fun of our water play. We scented the water with Bath and Body Works rain kissed leaves bath gel.

The scent seemed a perfect choice for this week!

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

The rain kissed leaves lotion had a light scent that the students really liked…..

…..whether rubbed on hands, arms, behind ears, or under chins!

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

FINE MOTOR GROUP

On Wednesday, the students used an adapted stamper to paint some green grass.

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

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

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

Next, the students stamped UP and DOWN.

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

Then, they chose a colorful butterfly to add to the scene.

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

TA DA!!!

Welcome spring and……

……everything GREEN!!!!

On Thursday, the students painted this green bug: bug template

First, they identified the color of the paint.

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

The bug template was put in a clear box and the students added 3 paint colored marbles.

Time to shake, shake, shake that box!

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

We pulled the bug out and glued it DOWN on the background paper.

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

Next, the students added some chenille stem “legs”.

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

TA DA!

Beautiful green bugs!

LANGUAGE GROUP

Of course, we are making a GREEN treat for the language group. This week we made green milkshakes using this recipe: Let’s Make A Green Milkshake

We started by TURNing the page to see the first step of the recipe. Since it was ice cream, we let each student touch the container first and indicate that it felt COLD. We talked about why it was cold as well and located the freezer.