Tag Archives: crafts

Mar11

Women’s History Month

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Women’s History Month

March is Women’s history month and March 8 was International Women’s Day so this week we chose to learn a little bit about some women who have made history. The sensory group boxes, fine motor group art projects, and the language group’s healthy snack, are all related to women featured in our book!

We had fun and learned a lot!

 

 

 

SENSORY GROUP

Ellen Ochoa is the first female Hispanic astronaut! This space themed box was filled with some “outer space” black beans. We added a little astronaut and some stars to find.

 

 

 

 

Recognize a space related object is a science access point.

 

 

 

 

Muriel Siebert was the first women to be on the New York Stock Exchange. There were all sorts of money related items in this box including some play money, a coin filled discovery bottle, and a wallet. They really had fun with this box!

 

 

The social studies access point identify coins as money that can be used to buy things can be addressed here.

 

 

 

 

Oprah is a multimedia giant—-actor, producer, talk show host, and philanthropist! One of her best known roles was in the movie The Color Purple so we chose purple kinetic sand and a letter O stamp for her box.

 

 

 

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

 

 

 

 

Misty Copeland is the first African American woman promoted to principal dancer at the American Ballet Theater. Her box is filled with swatches of tulle and satin, some ballet shoes, and a tiara.

 

 

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

We also put in a stretchy tutu that doubled as a very fun hat 🙂

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Beyonce is one of the most well known singer/songwriters of today! We recorded one of her songs on a voice output device then put in some musical instruments so our students could play along.

 

 

Recognize objects that create sounds is a science access point.

We also included some cool sunglasses——-

 

 

 

 

——–which our students totally rocked of course!

 

 

 

 

We recently watched Chloe Kim become the youngest woman to win an Olympic gold medal in the half pipe snowboarding event! We thought she was amazing!! The students had fun making their own “snowboard” trails through our shaving cream “snow”.

 

 

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

 

 

 

 

Natalie Coughlin is a swimmer who has won 12 Olympic medals and was the first ever woman to swim the 100 meter backstroke in less than a minute—-how cool is that! There were foam numbers 1 0 0 to scoop out of the water this week.

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

 

 

 

 

Our fruity raspberry scent from Bath and Body Works reminded us of farm to table item that Alice Waters might serve at her restaurant. The aroma was sweet—-just like our students 🙂

 

 

 

 

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

 

 

 

 

FINE MOTOR GROUP

On Tuesday as another nod to Alice Waters, we chose some healthy apples to PAINT with rather than eat this week!

First our students identified the shape of the paper we were using and then it’s color. They also identified the color of our paint.

 

 

 

 

Identify objects by one observable property, such as color is a science access point. Recognize an object with a two-dimensional shape is a math access point.

 

 

 

 

To make it easier for our students to hold the apple we inserted a fork into it then we asked the students to stamp UP and DOWN.

 

 

 

 

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

 

 

 

 

TA DA!

 

 

 

 

 

 

We are celebrating Women’s History Month!

 

 

 

 

On Wednesday we made some scales—-like those that represent the Supreme Court Judge Sandra Day O’Conner!

First the students identified the shape of the our kleenex boxes.

 

 

 

 

 

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

 

 

 

 

Then the students used colorful markers to decorate their boxes.

 

 

 

 

The science access points recognize a change in an object and recognize that pushing and pulling an object makes it move, both can be addressed here.

 

 

 

 

Our scales (made from some cut up cereal boxes, paper plates, and yarn by our wonderful volunteers) were attached with brads by the adults then we got to try them out! The students were pretty fascinated with seeing how their scales worked!

The math access point describe objects in terms of measurable attributes (longer, shorted, heavier, lighter, etc.) is addressed here.

 

 

 

 

TA DA!

 

 

 

 

 

 

We are celebrating Women’s History Month!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

LANGUAGE GROUP

Michelle Obama launched a campaign to end childhood obesity while she was First Lady of the U.S. so we thought a healthy treat would be a great snack to make this week!

Here is what we used throughout the activity: Let_s Make A Healthy Parfait

We started out a little bit backwards today by counting out how many cups we needed for our snack.  We counted out 7 cups for 7 students.

Associate quantities with number names is a math access point.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Before we put together the first step of the parfait, our students had to choose the healthier food item: yogurt or ice cream.  This can be a little bit challenging, especially since some students like to pick what they’d LIKE to eat rather than what’s BETTER for us to eat 🙂

 

 

Once they chose the correct ingredient, it was put into the cups.  Next, we moved on to choosing whether chocolate chips or strawberries was the healthier choice.  Once we decided the correct ingredient, that was put into the cups.

 

 

 

 

Next up was oreos or cheerios.  Again, the healthier choice was added to the cup.

Finally, our students had to indicate whether honey or chocolate sauce was healthier.  (You can really see which kiddos love the sweets more with these types of quizzes!).  Of course, the honey went on top.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Each student had to request that they WANTED their snack before they got it.

 

 

 

 

 

Healthy choices aren’t so bad after all——–YUM!

 

 

 

We had fun celebrating Women’s History Month and hope you did too! Our spring break is coming up so we will be back in two weeks for more fun and learning—–Group by Group!

 

Mar4

Sleeping Beauty

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Sleeping Beauty

February 26 was national Tell a Fairy Tale Day so we chose one of our favorites, Sleeping Beauty! It also helped that we had costumes to go with the story 🙂 The sensory groups explored boxes related to different characters in the story. The fine motor groups used cardboard to make their art projects and the language group made a fairy tale inspired tasty treat!

 

 

 

 

SENSORY GROUP

There were some magical things to find amongst the sprinkled silk leaves and flower petals in this box. We included some princess and fairy figures in addition to some woodland animals. One of the birds included made authentic chirping sounds.

 

 

The real hits of the box were the tiara, knights helmet, and lighted magic wand—-the students really had fun with these!

The science access points recognize a model of a real object and recognize sources of light can be addressed here.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Pink rice seemed perfect for Sleeping Beauty’s box. There was a picture of the princess herself to find at the bottom of the box and letters S and B to scoop up.

 

 

 

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

 

 

 

 

The students stamped the letter P for Prince or Princess in some blue Bubber. The smooth texture of Bubber is always intriguing to our students—-the adults kind of like it too 🙂

 

 

 

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

 

 

 

 

There were some different textures to explore with our grey Floam. We included some laminated castle props, some “thorny” plastic holly leaves, and a dragon.

This was a fun box!

 

 

The science access point apply a push to move an object is again addressed here.

 

 

 

 

With all the fairies in this story, we thought some magical fairy lights would be a perfect addition to our boxes this week. In addition to the colorful lights, we added some silver tinsel to give it extra sparkle. It was pretty cool looking, especially when we turned off the lights!

 

 

Recognize sources of light is a science access point.

 

 

 

 

Neon purple food coloring along with purple glitter made Maleficent’s oobleck really eye catching this week. Even some of our students who are usually averse to messy play couldn’t resist touching it this time!

 

 

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

More photos because this was really fun…..

…..and we believe that fun is an important access point too 🙂

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Hands were rinsed in a pond filled with 2 floating lighted flowers, a big scoop, and a funnel.

 

 

 

 

 

Track objects in motion is a science access point.

 

 

 

 

 

“Be enchanted” from Bath and BodyWorks was the perfect scent to go with our theme this week! It was a nice soft scent that the students loved—-whether rubbed on hands, arms, or behind ears!

 

 

 

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

 

 

 

 

FINE MOTOR GROUP

On Tuesday we made some fairy wands! We pre-glued cake pop sticks to cardboard stars.

We started by asking the students to identify a star shape.

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

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

They each put 1 glittery sticker on to their star.

 

 

 

 

 

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

 

 

 

 

 

Then they used adaptive table-top scissors to snip a length of ribbon.

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

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The students helped tie a knot in the ribbon—-a great way to practice bilateral coordination.

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

 

 

 

 

 

 

Ta Da!

 

 

 

 

 

                                                                       Time to make a wish!

 

 

 

 

 

On Wednesday, the students became fire breathing dragons! We loved these on Pinterest and thought our students would also!

First, using communication symbols,  they identified the color of their paper covering the cardboard roll.

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

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

We started by having the students tear red and yellow tissue paper into small strips. This is a great activity for bilateral coordination.

 

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

 

 

 

 

 

Then they painted some glue on to the inside of their toilet paper roll.

 

 

 

 

The science access point recognize a change in the appearance of an object is addressed here.

 

 

 

 

 

Next, they attached their tissue paper strips to the glue.

 

 

 

 

 

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

 

 

 

 

 

Two green pompoms were added to make the dragons nose.

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

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Ta———da!

 

 

 

 

 

                                                                         There be dragons here!

 

 

 

 

LANGUAGE GROUP

We had lots of fun making our wicked Maleficent smoothies this week during the language group!  Here is the recipe that we used: Let_s Make A Maleficent Smoothie

We started out by each of our students touching the bag of frozen blueberries.  They indicated that the blueberries felt COLD.

 

 

 

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

 

 

 

 

We measured out a cup and had a student request to HELP put them in the blender.

Next, we put a cup of frozen mangoes in the blender.  Since we had felt the frozen blueberries, we asked the students what they thought the frozen mangoes would feel like, and again, they had to indicate COLD.

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

 

 

 

 

 

We added some vanilla Greek yogurt to the blender next.  Each time we talked about WHERE we were putting the ingredients.  The students would either verbalize BLENDER or they would indicate it on their communication board.

 

Finally, we added some milk to the blender.

 

 

 

 

After all of the ingredients were in the blender, we had our students predict what color they thought the smoothie would be once the ingredients were all blended up.  Then, each student got to help turn the blender on using a wireless switch.

 

 

Recognize that electrical systems must be turned on in order to work is a science access point.

 

 

 

 

It took a lot of mixing but once the ingredients were ready, we counted out how many cups we needed for our friends and poured some smoothie into 6 cups.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

But we weren’t done yet!  We wanted to add some green to the purple smoothie to represent Maleficent’s face.  We put some cool whip into a bowl and added some green food coloring.  Our students helped count out 5 drops.  Then we watched as the white cool whip turned green.

 

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

 

 

 

 

We added some of the cool whip to each of the cups and then each student had to request that they WANTED a smoothie to DRINK.

 

 

 

It was wickedly delicious 🙂

 

 

 

What a magical week! Join us again next time for more fun and learning—–Group by Group!

 

 

Feb25

Paris

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Paris

Ooh la la we are learning about Paris this week! Ms. Latoya, our AP recently visited the city and her fabulous photos inspired our theme this week. Our sensory groups explored boxes related to Parisian facts. The fine motor groups made art projects with a familiar Paris landmark and the language group made a tasty french treat!

 

 

 

 

SENSORY GROUP

We put some paper shred in the colors of the French flag then added a variety of things associated with a trip to Paris. We included animals you might see there, a toy airplane, a passport, some pictures of Napoleon and Emma Watson (she was born in Paris), and even a squeaky “french pastry”! Lots to find and discover in this box.

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

 

 

 

 

 

Our rice is also in the colors of the French flag—-red, white, and blue. There were letter P’s to find and also a map of France at the bottom of the box.

 

 

 

 

Recognize objects as the same is a science access point.

 

 

 

 

 

The Catacombs of Paris are ancient burial spaces that many tourists like to visit. We made our own spooky catacombs using kinetic sand and some plastic skeletons from the dollar store. As usual, the students were pretty fascinated by the way the sand reacted when pushed, pulled, or allowed to drip off fingers.

 

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

 

 

 

 

After touring around for a while, it would be fun to stop at a cafe for coffee—-a very popular drink in Paris. There was a picture of the Eiffel tower to find at the bottom of the box and a heart shaped measuring cup and small spoon for scooping fun. Unfortunately, we didn’t include any croissants 🙂

 

 

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

 

 

 

 

 

Paris is known as the city of lights. We put lots of lights on our “Paris at night” umbrella and it turned out to be a big hit. The colorful lantern lights were particularly eye catching! We attached some laminated night time photos of famous Parisien landmarks and made sure to point them out to the students.

 

 

The social studies access point recognize a picture with a place can be addressed here.

This umbrella was a real hit with the students…..

 

 

 

 

 

 

So we had to include some more photos!

 

 

 

 

 

We discovered that plaster of paris actual does come from PARIS—how cool is that. We mixed shaving cream and cornstarch to get a similar texture to crumbly plaster. It had an interesting tactile feel and was VERY messy—–the students weren’t quite sure what to make of it 🙂

 

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

 

 

 

 

 

Fortunately, hands were easily rinsed in water scented with Bath and BodyWorks french lavender bath gel. We put in a couple of colorful ducks to float around in our Seine River. These ducks were pretty cool because they lit up when they touched the water—-how cool is that!

 

 

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

 

 

 

 

The matching lavender lotion had a pretty light scent and made for a nice reminder of a visit to Paris.

 

 

 

 

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

 

 

 

 

 

FINE MOTOR GROUP

On Tuesday our students made their art projects using this: Eiffel Tower

First, they identified the color of our paint using communication symbols.

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

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Then they painted a white piece of paper with red and blue paint.

 

 

 

 

 

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

 

 

 

 

 

They glued a silhouette of the Eiffel Tower (precut from black construction paper) DOWN on to their painting.

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

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

TA—- ooh la la—- DA!

 

 

 

 

 

                                                                        We love Paris!

 

 

 

 

 

On Wednesday the students made another Eiffel Tower inspired project but this time we shrunk the template 50% and cut it out of sparkly gold craft foam.

First the students identified the shape of their paper using communication symbols.

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

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Then they painted with a mixture of gold paint and a little bit of glue.

 

 

 

 

 

 

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

 

 

 

 

 

Time to sing the glitter song and “shake, shake, shake that glitter”!

 

 

 

 

 

 

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

 

 

 

 

 

Next, they squeezed some glue onto the back of the Eiffel Tower and patted it DOWN on to their paper.

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

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

TA Da!

 

 

 

 

 

                                                           Paris—–the city of lights!

 

 

 

 

LANGAUGE GROUP

Paris has lots of wonderful cuisine so we decided to try some out this week.  We made some dessert crepes!  Here is the recipe: Let_s Make Strawberries And Cream Crepes

We started out by making some whipped cream.  Our students helped PUT the whipping cream into the bowl.  Then we added some sugar.

Our students indicated that we needed to use tablespoons rather than measuring cups.

 

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

 

 

 

 

Each of our students observed that the mixture in the bowl was a LIQUID.

We had to mix the ingredients up, so each of our students took turns activating the switch to turn the mixer on.  It took a while for the whipped cream to set, so some students had a couple of turns.

Once it was done, our students observed that the mixture was now a SOLID.

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

 

 

 

 

Time to make the crepes!  We put some dollops of the whipped cream into each crepe and added some strawberries to it.  For our students who are on a puree diet, we smashed up the strawberries and mixed them into the whipped cream.

We folded up the crepes for the other students.  They had to request that they WANTED some the crepes to eat. YUM!

 

 

Join us again next time for more fun and learning

                                                                          Group by Group!

Feb18

2018 Winter Olympics

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2018 Winter Olympics

We stayed in a sports mode this week with our Winter Olympics theme. Our sensory groups explored boxes filled with wintery sports fun. The fine motor groups made olympic themed art projects and the language group hosted our own Winter Olympics!

It was a super fun week and we hope you enjoy seeing all that we did!

 

 

 

 

SENSORY GROUP

Paper shred at the bottom of this box was in the colors of the Korean Flag. We filled it with a variety of winter and olympic themed items including medals and a medal stand. The olympic fanfare was recorded on a voice output device and we even had a mask of the olympic mascot—-a white tiger!

 

 

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

 

 

 

 

 

This box contained chenille stems in the colors of the olympic flag. The students loved the soft texture of the rings and loved bending them into a variety of shapes—-including circles.

 

 

 

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

 

 

 

 

 

We put some gold glitter in our yellow play dough this week. The students used a circle cookie cutter to make their own olympic gold medals!

 

 

 

 

Again, the math access point recognize an object with a two-dimensional shape is addressed.

 

 

 

 

 

Colorful costumes are a feature of the ice skating competitions. The students loved wrapping themselves in the sparkly sequin fabric. They also found the three glittery discovery bottles to be very eye catching!

 

 

 

Track objects moving up and down is a science access point.

 

Did we mention how much they loved the fabric 🙂

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The winter olympics is all about snow so of course we had to have some! Insta Snow is great and really feels pretty close to the real thing! There were 2 different sized scoops—-perfect for making snowmen or snowballs 🙂

 

 

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

 

 

 

 

 

Red and yellow food coloring was added to shaving cream to make olympic torch flames. The students had fun mixing the colors  and seeing them change to orange as the colors combined!

 

 

 

 

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

 

 

 

 

 

Bath and BodyWorks peppermint scented the water this week. That icy aroma seemed the perfect choice for a wintery unit. There were some pool noodle olympic rings to match, count, or stack!

 

 

 

Recognize two objects that are the same size or color is a math access point.

 

 

 

 

Matching peppermint lotion was very popular with the students—-whether applied to hands, arms or behind ears 🙂

 

 

 

 

 

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

 

 

 

 

 

FINE MOTOR GROUP

On Tuesday, the students made an ice skating themed project using this: ice skaters

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

 

 

 

 

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

 

 

 

 

Next, they used blue markers to make skate tracks on the “ice”.

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

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

They also got to make some skate tracks using our switch operated writing tool—-always fun 🙂

 

 

 

 

 

Distinguish between objects in motion and at rest is a science access point.

 

 

 

 

Then the students glued their ice skater DOWN on the paper—-pat, pat, pat!

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

 

 

 

 

 

 

Ta DA!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Perfect scores!

 

 

 

 

On Wednesday, the students made their own gold medals using paper plates.

First, they identified the shape of plate the using communication symbols.

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

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Then they painted their paper plates with gold paint.

 

 

 

 

 

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

 

 

 

 

 

Pincer grasps were practiced as the students pulled ribbon through a hole in the plate.

 

 

 

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

 

 

 

 

 

TA DA!!!!!

 

 

 

 

 

 

Our gold medalists!

 

 

 

 

 

LANGUAGE GROUP

We had lots of fun this week in the language group!  We had our own school Winter Olympics (although the weather made it feel more like it should’ve been the Summer Olympics). All of the elementary classes participated in the events.

We started with a parade led by our very own torch bearer and the host country carrying their flag!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The other classrooms created their own flags and had a flag bearer parade with it through the hall to represent the class.

 

 

 

 

 

 

There were some very colorful flags!

 

 

 

 

 

Our first event was ice skating with ice skaters on switch toys! We had pairs skating, so 2 students got to activate the switches at the same time.

 

 

 

 

We used the ice skater templates from our fine motor group glued  on to pieces of cardboard then attached to the switch toys with velcro.

 

The skaters danced to music from Beauty and the Beast which was recorded on a voice output device.

The switch we used for the boy skater was wireless so we got some super cool twirls which the students (and adults) found quite exciting!

 

 

 

 

 

We had another student who was the score keeper.

He used an All-Turn-It spinner with numbers around it so whatever number it landed on was the score that was received.

There was some controversy with scoring—-not everyone agreed with the judge 🙂

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Next, we had the curling event.  We had 2 students from different classes compete with each other.

They had to push/sweep the ball through the cones to win the game.

 

 

 

They needed a little bit of guidance, but overall they did really well.

 

 

 

 

 

From that event, we went outside for the bobsledding.  The OT’s created some really cool bobsleds out of cardboard boxes that fit over wheelchairs.  We had 2 man bobsled teams: a student and a teacher.

 

 

 

 

Our races consisted of 2 teams at a time.  The teams had to wait to hear “GO” before running to the finish.

 

This event was lots of fun!

 

 

 

 

 

 

Like the dragon boat races we had a few weeks ago, we found out just how competitive our teachers are 🙂

 

 

 

 

 

The final event was the luge.  Our students had to follow directions to keep their bodies on the sleds in order to “luge” down the hill.

 

 

 

 

Although it was a short ride, they had so much fun!

 

 

 

Everybody got to take a turn…..

 

 

…..or two or three 🙂

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Finally, everyone came together for the medals.  Each student received a medal for participating.

 

 

 

 

We took team photos.

 

 

 

 

Everyone agreed…….

 

 

 

 

 

…………. it was a Winter Olympics hit!

 

 

 

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

 

Feb11

The Super Bowl

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The Super Bowl

Like everyone else we were very excited to watch the Super Bowl last Sunday—-and if we had planned a little better this unit would have been last week 🙂 However, it turned out to be a nice review for our students and we had a lot of fun! Our sensory boxes were related to the different teams. The fine motor groups made some group art projects and the language group made a Super Snack!

 

 

 

 

SENSORY GROUP

We based this box around some basic football facts. Since the color of the ball is BROWN we used some brown beans that kind of, sort of , maybe were football shaped 🙂 The beans were fun for the students to scoop up or push hands into while looking for number 2’s that were buried beneath.

Associate quantities with number names is a math access point.

 

 

 

 

 

This box was filled with beads in the colors of the Philadelphia Eagles. The beads were very eye catching and great for either sorting, wearing,………. or shaking.

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

 

 

 

 

Patriotic pasta was used for the New England Patriots box. There were some fun shapes such as bells and stars to find and scoop with the different sized measuring cups we included.

The box also sounded pretty cool when the dry pasta was shaken.

Match objects by one observable property, such as shape, is a science access point and can be addressed here.

 

 

 

 

Bank Stadium (where the game took place) has purple seats, we used PURPLE basket filler for the stadiums colors. We added a variety of football related items including minature balls, a plush eagle, football player figures, and some fun cheerleader shaker pompoms. We also recorded a song by half time show headliner  Justin Timberlake.

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

 

 

 

 

 

Whether you watch the game at home or in the stadium, there are always some yummy snacks to be had! We used colorful popcorn as a base for our box, then put in a play food hamburger, hotdog, and soda bottle. To add to the fun some of the play food made noise when squeezed!

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

 

 

 

 

 

The Patriots play in the Gillette Stadium so we didn’t have to think hard to come up with our messy play this week—–shaving cream of course 🙂

The students were encouraged to make oval “football” shapes or draw straight “yard lines”.

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

 

 

 

 

 

For our water play we used Old Spice Denali body wash—-we figured that was something those football players might use to wash up after the game. It was a pretty strong scent that really wafted around the room!

Since this was Super Bowl 57, we put foam numbers 5 and 7 in the water.

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

 

 

 

 

 

We couldn’t find any Denali lotion but decided to use Bath and BodyWorks amber for men. It was another strong scent that was popular with the students. As usual, we asked them to indicate where they wanted the lotion.

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

 

 

 

 

FINE MOTOR GROUP

On Tuesday the students made a football poster using this: football player

First the students identified the paint color we planned to use.

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

 

 

 

 

 

The students took turns painting the “grass” on our poster board field.

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

 

 

 

 

Then they glued their players DOWN onto the field.

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

Ta DA! Are you ready for some football?!!

 

 

 

 

 

On Wednesday the students turned themselves into football players. We got this idea from the Cornerstone School—–great idea guys!

First the students  identified the color they were going to use on their jersey. We had one table color an Eagles jersey and the other table colored a Patriots jersey.

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

 

 

 

 

 

 

Then they used crayons and markers to color their jerseys. Since this was a big piece, we encouraged big strokes!

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

 

 

 

 

 

TA DA!

                                                                        Put me in coach!

 

 

 

 

 

LANGUAGE GROUP

Since the Super Bowl is the 2nd largest food consumption day in the U.S., we HAD to make a snack fit for the game.  Here is the recipe that we used for this week: Let_s Make Buffalo Chicken Dip

We started out by putting the softened cream cheese into the bowl.  Our students had to inform that they wanted to help by raising their hand and/or by indicating “help” on their communication board.

Next, we added some chicken to the bowl.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

We put some ranch dressing in the bowl next.  Our students helped by squeezing the bottle to pour the ranch into the measuring cup and then pouring the ranch into the bowl.

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

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Finally, we added some buffalo sauce.  We used just a little bit of mild sauce so you might find that your students can tolerate a little bit more.  We just didn’t want it to be too spicy!

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

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

We stirred all of the ingredients up and popped it into the microwave for 2 minutes.  We talked about the microwave making the ingredients WARM.

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

 

 

 

 

 

 

Once our recipe was finished, we passed out some dip with some chips.  Our students had to request that they wanted “more” chips since we only gave them 3 to start with.

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

We’re ready to watch the game—–again!

 

 

 

 

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

Feb4

Ancient Myths and Legends

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Ancient Myths and Legends

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

 

 

 

 

SENSORY GROUP

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

 

 

 

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

 

 

 

 

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

 

 

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

 

 

 

 

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

 

 

 

 

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

 

 

 

 

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

 

 

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

 

 

 

 

 

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

 

 

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

 

 

 

 

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

 

 

 

 

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

 

 

 

 

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

We also included a measuring cup for scooping fun.

 

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

 

 

 

 

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

 

 

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

 

 

 

 

FINE MOTOR SKILLS

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

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

 

 

 

 

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

 

 

 

 

 

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

 

 

 

 

 

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

 

 

 

 

 

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

 

 

 

 

 

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

 

 

 

 

 

Ta DA!

We are spreading the love!

 

 

 

 

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

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

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

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

Associate quantities with number names is a math access point.

 

 

 

 

 

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

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

 

 

 

 

 

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

 

 

 

 

 

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

 

 

 

 

 

Ta—- toga—- DA!

 

 

 

 

 

Our students are legendary!

 

 

 

 

 

LANGUAGE GROUP

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

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

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

 

 

 

 

 

 

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

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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

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

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

 

 

 

 

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

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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

 

 

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

 

 

 

 

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

YUM!!!!

 

 

 

 

 

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

Jan21

Our 5 Senses

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Our 5 Senses

Our students are learning about body systems with their Unique Curriculum this month. This was perfect timing for a unit on our 5 senses. Our sensory groups explored some fun multi-sensory boxes. The fine motor groups made art projects that were multi-sensory, and the language group explored their favorite sense—–taste 🙂

 

 

 

 

 

SENSORY GROUP

Light toys are extremely  popular with our students and the ones in this box were no exception.  Our toys not only lit up but some of them even vibrated! Not only vision, but the sense of touch and hearing were stimulated here.

 

 

 

Recognize sources of light is a science access point.

 

 

 

 

 

The students had a blast using their muscles to stretch these different textured toys. Not only did they stretch, but some of the toys made noise or vibrated also—-too cool!

 

 

 

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

 

 

 

 

 

This box was all about sound. All these toys made noise either shaking, spinning, or squeezing. There was a LOT of fun to be had here! The little bear that “sang” when his tummy was squeezed was a particular favorite.

 

Recognize objects that create sounds is a science access point.

 

 

 

 

 

Our multi-colored pasta was not only visually eye catching but made noise when little hands dove in or the box was shaken. We had letters for the students to find and match. The letters corresponded to the different senses, ex. T for TASTE and S for SEE.

 

 

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

 

 

 

 

 

We put a variety of textures in this box—-rough, smooth, hard, soft, etc. In addition, some of the toys made noise such as the crinkly snowman toy. The students were  pretty intrigued with the blue plexiglass window and the vibrating crab toy which produced LOTS of giggles!

 

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

 

 

 

 

Pop rocks were added to our shaving cream to add a sound element. We found that while it somewhat worked, the pop rocks work better in a wetter substance such as when we have put them in oobleck. The students still had fun and the pop rocks added an additional textural component.

 

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

 

 

 

 

A light toy was added to our water play in addition to a spinning water wheel and scooping cups. There was a lot to explore and as usual, the students had lots of fun!

 

 

 

 

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

 

 

 

 

We wanted to have a pretty distinctive scent this week so we used Bath and BodyWorks eucalyptus spearmint. It was a strong scent that definitely captured their attention!

 

 

 

 

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

 

 

 

 

FINE MOTOR GROUP

On Tuesday the students made a multi-sensory painting.

We started by identifying the shape of our paper using communication symbols.

Recognize objects with two-dimensional shapes, such as circle or square, is a math access point.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Before we added the scented essential oil to the paint we let the students smell it. We used sandalwood scent which was pretty strong and our students weren’t quite sure what to make of it!

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

 

 

 

 

 

 

The students used a variety of regular and adapted paint tools to spread paint around their paper.

 

 

 

 

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

 

 

 

 

 

For additional texture, they sprinkled some fine pink sand on to the paint.

Track a falling object is a science access point.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

TA DA!!!!!!!!!

We made some sensory art!!!

 

 

 

 

 

 

On Wednesday after we discussed that our senses tell our brain about the world using nerve pathways that are all over our body. For their art project, the students made a painting of their nervous system using marbles and this: senses

First the students identified the color of the paint and counted the marbles.

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

 

 

Associate quantities with number names is a math access point.

 

 

 

 

Then for the fun part—–we closed the lid and they began shaking and turning the box!

 

 

 

 

The science access point recognize an action as fast or slow can be addressed here.

 

 

 

 

TA DA!!!!!!

This is our nervous system!!!!!

 

 

 

 

 

LANGUAGE GROUP

We explored our sense of taste this week in the language group.  We started out by taste testing things that were salty (chips), sweet (honey), and sour (lemon juice).

Each student took a turn tasting one item at a time.  They had to indicate whether it was salty, sweet, or sour using picture symbols that were provided.  They did pretty well with this exercise!

 

 

 

Use pictures, symbols, gestures/signs, or words to communicate meaning, is a language access point.

 

 

 

 

After our taste test, we made a treat that incorporated each kind of taste: Let_s Make A Salty, Sour, Sweet Treat

We started by putting the lemon pudding mix into a bowl.  We talked about how we needed a measuring cup to measure out the milk.  Our students observed how the white pudding powder turned yellow when the milk was poured into the bowl.

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

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

 

 

 

 

 

Each student had a turn pushing the switch to turn on the mixer.  Our students had to indicate that we needed to mix MORE each time a student completed their turn.

 

 

 

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

 

 

 

 

 

Next, our students helped crush up some pretzel sticks.  They used a rolling pin to crush the pretzels.

 

 

 

 

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

 

 

 

 

 

We counted out the cups we needed for each treat and identified the number 7.  Then we added some crushed pretzels to each cup and put some of the lemon pudding on top of the pretzels.

The math access point recognize the next step in a simple pattern or sequence of activities can be addressed here.

 

 

 

 

 

Finally, our students requested whipped cream for the top.  Our taste buds were in for a treat!

YUM!!!!!

 

 

 

 

 

 

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

Jan14

Scotland

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Scotland

One of our staff members, Ms. Ellen, recently travelled to Scotland so this week we learned about the country of Tartan—-and so much more! Our sensory groups explored boxes related to facts about Scotland. The fine motor groups made symbols of the country art projects and the language group made a Scots inspired treat!

 

 

 

 

SENSORY GROUP

Since Ms. Ellen took a plane to get to there, we replicated the airplane experience using a vibrating massager and jet sounds recorded on a voice output device.

 

 

Of course, our plane ride lasted a whopping 3 minutes——just a tad shorter than the real thing 🙂

 

 

 

 

The vibrating tube was a HUGE hit with the students!

 

 

 

 

 

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

 

 

 

 

We used rice in the colors of the Scottish flag for this box. There were letter “S”s to find and a map of the country at the bottom of the box. We also put in 2 different sized scoops.

 

 

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

 

 

 

 

The background of the Scottish flag is blue, so we pulled out our blue moon sand this week. The students used 2 different sized cookie cutters to stamp letter “S” into the sand.

 

 

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

 

 

 

 

This box had a variety of items associated with Scotland including their national animal—-the unicorn! Symbols of famous Scottish authors such as J.M. Barrie (Peter Pan), Sir Arthur Conan Doyle (Sherlock Holmes), and Robert Louis Stevenson (Treasure Island) were a fun addition.

 

 

 

 

We also included a passport, a voice output device with some bagpipe music recorded on it, and a phone for Alexander Graham bell was pretty popular!

Lots to explore here!

 

 

 

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

 

 

 

 

There are over 3000 castles in Scotland—–how cool is that! The students had fun making their own castles using grey Floam. We laminated some props including a kilted Scotsman.

 

 

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

 

 

 

 

Oatmeal added to our oobleck turned it into “porridge” this week! This lumpy oobleck was certainly a different texture and pretty  fascinating to our students—-although some were a little hesitant to actually touch it.

 

 

The science access point track objects in motion is a science access point.

 

 

 

 

The students found cute little Nessie  swimming around in “Loch”. You will notice that Nessie bears a striking resemblance to a My Little Pony seahorse 🙂 We also included 2 different sized scoops for added fun.

 

 

 

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

 

 

 

 

Since Scotland gets a lot of rainy weather, Bath and BodyWorks rain kissed leaves seemed a good scent to use this week. The students really liked the soft scent.

 

 

 

Recognize one or more external body parts.

 

 

 

 

FINE MOTOR GROUP

On Tuesday, our students made the Scottish flag.

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

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

 

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

 

 

 

 

Then we cut 1 strip of white paper into 2 pieces using switch operated scissors or paper cutters.

Associate quantities with number names is a math access point.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Next the students were asked to glue down the strips of paper in the shape of an X.

 

 

 

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

 

 

 

 

TA DA!!!!!!!!

We love Scotland!

 

 

 

 

On Wednesday, our students turned into Unicorns using paper plates !

We started by using communication symbols to identify the shape of our paper.

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

 

 

 

 

 

 

Then the used a glue stick to “color” their triangle. The glue in these sticks comes out purple which makes it easy to see.

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

 

 

 

 

 

 

Next, the students sprinkled pink and purple glitter onto the glue. Of course we sang our “shake that glitter” song (adapted from KC and the Sunshine Band’s famous song) 🙂

 

 

 

 

Track falling objects is a science access point.

 

 

 

 

The students glued their triangles DOWN on to a precut paper plate.

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

 

 

 

 

 

 

TA DA!!!!

 

 

 

 

 

We just spotted some Unicorns!

 

 

 

 

LANGUAGE GROUP

We made a popular Scottish dessert this week–raspberry cranachan.  Typically, this dessert has whiskey in it so we had to do some searching to find a kid friendly recipe.  Here is that recipe: Let_s Make Raspberry Cranachan

Cara had prepared the toasted oats before the group so we were able to skip the first part of the recipe.

Our students requested to put the whipping cream in the bowl.  We talked about how it was a liquid when it was poured into the bowl  Each of our students took turns pressing the switch to activate the mixer.   Once it thickened up, we talked about how it had turned into a solid.

Identify objects and materials as solid or liquid is an access point.

 

 

 

 

Next, we added some mascarpone and mixed that together with the whipping cream.

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

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

We added some honey and caramel sauce next.  We talked about how we were using a measuring spoon because we needed a smaller amount of each ingredient.  Our students got to taste the caramel sauce.

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

 

 

 

Before we added the honey and caramel sauce we tasted them. We talked about how they tasted SWEET.

 

 

 

 

This taste test received a unanimous thumbs up 🙂

 

 

 

 

Once the ingredients were all mixed up, we counted out cups for each of our students.  We layered the cups with raspberries, the whipped cream mix, raspberry preserves, and toasted oats.

The consensus was a positive one!

Associate quantities with number names is a math access point.

 

 

 

It was a great week and we enjoyed learning so much about Scotland. Join us next time for more fun and learning——Group by Group!

Jan7

New Years

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New Years

It’s been an interesting start to the year for us—–we had an actual SNOW day! Snow is a pretty rare commodity around here so there was quite a bit of excitement as you can imagine. Due to the start of the semester and the snow day our week has been pretty short but we did manage to have 3 groups for our New Year’s themed unit. Happy 2018!

 

 

 

 

SENSORY GROUP

In the south we eat black eyed peas for luck on New Year’s day. This box of dried peas contained the numbers 2-0-1-8 for the students to find.

Associate quantities with number names is a math access point.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

In the Chinese New Year, 2018 will be the year of the dog—–how cool is that! Since red is a considered a lucky color we used red moon sand to go with our dog shaped cookie cutter. Moon sand has a soft texture but is moldable which makes it perfect for this activity.

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

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The students had fun scooping and sifting sand using the tools we included in this “sands of time” box. It was also a great opportunity to practice bilateral skills!

 

The science access point track a falling object can be addressed here.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Lots of people have parties this time of year so we had a box of colorful party beads for the students to wear and explore. Also, lots of fun to shake!

Track objects in motion is a science access point.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Fireworks are a big part of the New Year’s celebrations. Our fireworks light show toy was a hit with the students. It made some pretty authentic fireworks sounds and projected small pictures—-very cool!

 

 

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

 

 

 

 

 

There was some shiny and colorful confetti to swirl around in shaving cream this week.

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

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The students had fun scooping the numbers 2-0-1-8 from our “bubbly” (from Philosophy) scented water.

 

Identify objects by one observable property (in this case floating or sinking) is a science access point.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Bath and BodyWorks has a scent called “midnight”—-perfect for a New Year’s unit! The students really liked the scent.

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

 

 

 

 

 

We finished our group we some bubble wrap fireworks—-so much fun!

 

 

 

 

 

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

 

 

 

 

 

FINE MOTOR GROUP

We made some fireworks pictures this week!

First, we identified our paint color using communication symbols.

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

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

After dipping our paint tool in the paint, the students stamped UP and DOWN to make their fireworks. Our tool was made by fringing a piece of craft foam, folding it in half, rolling it up, and then securing it with a rubber band.

 

 

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

 

 

 

 

 

Then they added some gold glitter—–got to have some sparkle 🙂

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

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

TA——– ooh aah——– Da!

 

FIREWORKS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

LANGUAGE GROUP

We started out the group by re-reading a book that we had made a couple of years ago.  It’s a book that looks at some of the New Year’s traditions that other countries have.  Here is the book we read: It’s New Year’s Around The World

We talked about how, in the south, people eat different kinds of foods that are thought to bring good luck.  One of those foods is black eyed peas—-so we decided to make some! While the peas were heating up, we counted out six bowls for the students.

Associate quantities with number name is a math access point.

 

 

 

 

 

We talked about how the bowls felt warm after the beans were heated. Not everyone was impressed by the peas, but everyone took at least 1 bite 🙂

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

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

We also had some Nilla Wafers for our students. It was a party after all so we HAD to have something sweet ! The students had to communicate how many cookies they wanted.  They could choose to have 1, 2, or 3 cookies.

Associate quantities with number names is a science access point.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Since this was a party, we brought out some Sprite as a drink.  This was the first time we brought soda to the group so it was interesting to see the faces our students made!  They certainly weren’t expecting anything bubbly 🙂

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

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

After our snack, we had “fireworks” using bubble wrap.  This is always a hit and so much fun!

 

 

 

 

 

We are now ready to take on the new year—–even with snow!!

Happy New Year from Group by Group!

Nov5

Day of the Dead

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Day of the Dead

We had fun learning about Day of the Dead this week. It is a holiday celebrated November 1st and 2nd in Mexico. Our sensory groups explored boxes related to different facts about the holiday. The fine motor groups and language group made art projects inspired by sugar skulls!

 

 

 

 

 

SENSORY GROUP

The students sorted pompoms in the colors of the Mexican flag—–red, green, and white.

 

 

 

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

 

 

 

 

 

These eye catching beans reminded us of all the colorful decorations and costumes seen in pictures of Day of the Dead celebrations.

The students searched for letter D’s of different sizes or watched them sift through fingers.

 

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

 

 

 

 

This box had different items related to Day of the Dead. We put in some toy people and the word FAMILY since the holiday is all about ancestors. There were also some flower petals, beads, skeletons, and musical instruments—-including a maraca that named colors and numbers in Spanish when shaken!

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

 

 

 

 

 

Salt, representing the “salt of life”, is also a part of the celebration. In this box we put salt and some tools the students could use to explore it. There was also a picture of a calaveras or sugar skull to find underneath.

 

 

Recognize that pushing and pulling an object makes it move, is a science access point. Track objects in motion is another science access point that can be addressed here.

 

 

 

 

Lots of candles are placed on altars during the Day of the Dead. Since we can’t use real candles at school, we used our Wikki Stix and some light toys to simulate them.

The students really had a lot of fun with this box!

 

Some of the students preferred the Wikki Stix…….

but the lighted toys were also a big hit of course!

 

 

 

 

 

Recognize a source of light is a science access point.

 

 

 

 

 

Colorful flowers are seen everywhere during Day of the Dead celebrations. Our students used a flower shaped cookie cutter with red and yellow play dough to decorate this eye catching sugar skull tray we found at the Dollar General store.

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

 

 

 

 

 

There were some fun lighted flowers to look at in our water basin this week. We also included some different sized scoops.

 

 

 

 

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

 

 

 

 

 

Bath and BodyWorks vanilla sugar was the perfect scent for us this week. This sweet scent is always popular with the students—-whether rubbed on hands, arms, or behind ears!

 

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

 

 

 

 

 

FINE MOTOR GROUP

On Tuesday the students decorated a sugar skull picture we found on the Coloring Castle website.

We also used some stampers we made using dish scrubbers and craft foam flowers.

 

First the students chose which color paint to start, either RED or YELLOW, using communication symbols.

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

 

 

 

 

We applied the paint to the stampers and encouraged the students to stamp UP and DOWN, helping them as needed.

 

 

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

 

 

 

 

 

Ta Da!!!!!

 

 

 

 

                                                         Check out our sugar skulls!

 

 

 

 

 

On Wednesday the students decorated these huge felt sugar skulls we found at the Dollar Tree store. Since they were one dollar a piece it was a little bit of a splurge for us but we couldn’t resist!

First, using communication symbols, the students identified the colors of the glitter we planned to use.

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

 

 

 

 

 

 

Then the students painted their skulls with glue.

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

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Time to “shake, shake, shake that glitter”!

The science access point recognize an action as fast or slow, can be addressed here.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Next they glued some silk flowers onto their skulls. After each flower was glued down we asked the students if they were “all done” or wanted “more”. Of course, we also counted how many flowers each student put on their skull.

 

 

Associate quantities with number names is a math access point.

 

 

 

 

 

Ta DA!!!!!!

 

 

 

 

 

                                     Such colorful calaveras!

 

 

 

 

 

 

LANGUAGE GROUP

We put our own spin on edible calaveras this week and made our version of sugar skulls.  Here’s the recipe: Lets Make Our Version Of Sugar Skulls

We started out by pouring some milk into a small cup and then made it edible paint by adding food coloring.  Our students got to STIR the food coloring around and watched as it turned our white milk different colors.

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

 

 

 

 

Once the “paint” was all mixed up, we counted out how many plates and pieces of bread we needed for all of our friends. Each student got to paint a piece of bread, requesting the colors they wanted using communication boards.

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

 

 

 

 

 

After they finished painting their bread, we started to make the face.  We had to count out 2 banana slices for the eyes.  We talked about how the eyes had to go on the TOP of the bread.  Then we counted out 2 blueberries to put on TOP of the banana slices.

 

 

 

 

Next, we added the nose.  Each student got 1 half of a strawberry.  We talked about how the strawberry goes in the MIDDLE of the bread.

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

 

 

 

 

 

 

Finally, we used 5 miniature marshmallows for the teeth.  Students had to indicate that they needed MORE marshmallows if they did not receive the correct amount.  We talked about how the marshmallows go on the BOTTOM of the bread.

Associate quantities with number names and identify spatial relationships, are both math access points.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Wow!!  These turned out great and were lots of fun to make.

                     Pretty tasty too!

 

 

 

We enjoyed learning about Dia de los Muertos this week and hope you did too.

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