Tag Archives: oobleck

Sep12

Outer Space

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Outer Space

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

 

 

 

 

 

 

SENSORY

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

 

 

 

 

 

Science access point: recognize a space related object.

 

 

 

 

 

Colorful Floam got molded into planets and asteroids!

They really had fun with this!

 

 

 

 

 

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

 

 

 

 

 

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

 

 

 

 

 

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

 

 

 

 

 

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

We ordered our kinetic sand from Amazon.

 

 

 

 

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

 

 

 

 

 

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

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

 

 

 

 

Science access point: track objects in motion.

 

 

 

 

 

Hands were rinsed in “clouds of Venus” water.

 

 

 

 

 

 

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

 

 

 

 

 

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

 

 

 

 

 

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

 

 

 

 

 

GROSS MOTOR

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

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

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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

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

 

 

 

 

 

FINE MOTOR

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

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

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

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Then,  identified their paint color and started painting.

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

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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

 

 

 

 

 

TA DA!!

 

 

 

 

 

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

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

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

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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

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

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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

 

 

 

 

 

 

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

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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

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

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

TA DA!!!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

To infinity and beyond!

 

 

 

 

 

LANGUAGE 

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

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

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

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

 

 

 

 

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

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

We did the same with the powdered milk.

 

 

 

 

 

 

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

Math access point: associate quantities with number names.

 

 

 

 

 

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

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

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

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

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

 

 

 

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

Apr12

Color

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Color

Distance learning continues and we hope everyone out there is doing ok. Our SLP, OT, and PT have some more fun activities for you. This week we are going with a COLORFUL theme!

Once again we pulled some photos from our library 🙂

 

 

 

 

 

 

SENSORY

Let’s make OOBLECK!

This is a pretty messy activity so you might want to go outside for this one. Where ever you choose to do this, definitely have a basin of water, hose, or sink nearby! It you follow our blog regularly you know that oobleck is one of our favorite sensory experiences and SO easy to make at home—-all you need is cornstarch and water!

Mix 2 parts cornstarch and 1 part water and pour onto a cookie sheet. Put a few drops of food coloring on one side and a few drops of another color on the other side. Let your child dive right in with BOTH hands! Talk about the colors they SEE and watch the oobleck change colors as the food coloring swirls and mixes together.

So much fun 🙂

 

 

 

GROSS MOTOR

To address gross motor skills, make up some games to play to work on color identification and incorporate motor movements.  For example, you could place different colored pieces of construction paper or objects on the floor and ask your child to go pick up a certain colored piece of paper/object and bring it to you.

Have them change the way they travel to the colored paper/object.  For example, use movements like crawl, crab walk, bear crawl, hop like a bunny or frog, log roll, walk backwards, side step, etc.

The skill could also be worked on while sitting, by presenting two choices and having your child reach for a requested color.  This could be done in supported sitting or independent sitting.  You can make it even trickier by moving the choices around (up, down, out to the side, forward, etc.) or having them reach with a certain hand.  Hopefully that gives you a few simple ideas to try.

Enjoy!

 

 

 

FINE MOTOR

We saw this idea on Pinterest and we were totally inspired! You will need a black permanent marker, regular kids’ markers, and a paper towel folded in HALF. We found that the cheaper paper towels work best! You will also need a cookie sheet with a layer of water. This activity gets a little messy so you may want to go outside for this one too 🙂

For students who need help using or are learning to use classroom tools: draw an outline their initials or name in block letters with the BLACK permanent marker. Go over the outline a few times!

For students that are more proficient writers: have them draw a word of choice.

 

 

 

OPEN the towel up—you will see a faint outline of the design that was drawn on top.

Use DIFFERENT colored markers to FILL IN color each letter on the bottom half of the towel.

If your child can’t do fill in coloring, just have them add color to the bottom half of the towel—the end product will be great either way!

 

 

 

 

 

Once you have finished coloring, fold the top back over and place the paper towel on the water—–and watch the magic happen!

The colors will bleed from the bottom sheet onto the top sheet—-HOW COOL IS THAT 🙂

 

 

LANGUAGE

You can download this simple color board to point to the different colors that you are targeting.  Here’s the link:  color board

Some fun activities to incorporate color:

  • Pick out one color and go around the house to find different things that are the same color.  You can take the color board with you around the house and point to the targeted color as a reminder.  You can also use the board to show your child if what they found matches the targeted color or not.
  • If you have an ice cube tray, you can make colorful ice cubes by freezing water mixed with food coloring.  You can put them in a glass of water and watch the water change color.  You can also put 2 different colors of ice cubes in the water and see what new color it will make.  Try yellow+blue, blue+red, and red+yellow 🙂

 

 

 

LITERACY

We recommend reaching this book from April 2018: Look At The Colors Of The Rainbow

Here is another book from February 2016: The World is Full of Color

 

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

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Jan31

Let’s Learn About Famous People From France

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Let’s Learn About Famous People From France

January 30 is National Croissant Day and to celebrate, we decided to learn about famous people in French History! Our sensory groups explored boxes dedicated to some of the different people we learned about. The fine motor groups crafted art projects inspired by some creative French geniuses and the language group made a tasty French snack!

 

 

 

 

 

SENSORY GROUP

We used red, white, and blue rice to represent the colors of the French flag.

 

 

 

 

 

 

There were pictures of Napoleon both in and underneath the box as well as letter N’s to find.

Science access point: recognize objects as the same.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Marquis de Lafayette helped us win the Revolutionary War so we made a patriotic box for him!

 

 

 

 

 

 

The students explored pasta in different patriotic shapes including the Liberty Bell, flag, and star.

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

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

For Marie Curie we used colorful discovery bottles that looked like they contained science experiments!

 

 

 

 

 

Their whirling, swirling contents were all pretty mesmerizing!

Science access point: track objects in motion.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The students made castles out of sand and wooden blocks in this box dedicated to Joan of Arc.

 

 

 

 

We found some plastic knights in the dollar store and included some of them too.

Science access point: recognize that objects can stick together.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Coco Chanel was a famous designer. We filled her box with a variety of items including beads, fabric, sunglasses, and some fashion model dolls.

 

 

 

 

There were lots of different textures to explore!

Our fashionistas had a blast 🙂

 

 

 

 

 

 

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

 

 

 

 

 

We made royal oobleck using bright food coloring and LOTS of gold glitter for King Louis the XIV!

Colorful, shiny and very eye catching.

 

 

 

 

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

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Jacques Cousteau’s ocean was filled with ocean animals, different sized measuring cups, and a large “net”.

 

 

 

 

 

One of the fish squirted water when squeezed—-so much fun 🙂

Science access point: match living things with their habitats.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

If Nostradamus had predicted we would use Bath and Body Works french lavender this week he would have been right 🙂

 

 

 

 

 

Put on arms, necks, hands, or ears—-the perfect scent to go with a French unit!

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

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

FINE MOTOR GROUP

On Tuesday we made some Degas ballerinas using coffee filters!

First, we identified the shape of the coffee filter.

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

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

We also identified the color of our markers.

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

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Then each student colored 2 coffee filters.

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

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Next, we folded the coffee filters in HALF and then into QUARTERS.

Math access point: recognize a half of an object as part of the whole object.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

We glued them onto a ballerina coloring page—-to make the ballerina’s tutu! The coloring page was an internet freebie.

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

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

TA—let’s dance— DA!!

 

 

 

 

 

 

Beautiful Degas worthy ballerinas!

 

 

 

 

 

On Wednesday, the students became fashion designers like Coco Chanel!

First, the students identified the shape of the fabric swatches.

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

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

They chose a variety of fabric squares and began gluing them down on to a shirt shaped poster board. We used food coloring to tint the glue a little bit to make it easier for the students to see.

 

 

 

 

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

 

 

 

 

 

 

TA—-runway—- DA!!!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Our students are fashion designers….

…..and ready for the show!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

LANGUAGE GROUP

We celebrated National Croissant day by making some croissant sandwiches!  Here is the recipe that we used: Let’s Make Croissant Sandwiches

We started out by measuring 3 cups of chicken.  Since our measuring cup only holds 2 cups, we measured out the 2 cups and then our students indicated that we needed MORE.  After measuring out the chicken, we PUT it in the BOWL.

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

 

 

 

 

 

 

Next, we had to measure out a cup of chopped pickles.  Students HELPED to measure and PUT the pickles in the BOWL.

We added some chopped celery next.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

After the celery, we had to measure out 1 cup of mayonnaise and a 1/4 cup of mustard.  Students had to indicate which measuring cup was SMALLER to show which one was the 1/4 cup.

 

Math access point: identify parts of a whole.

 

 

 

 

 

Once we added all of the ingredients to the bowl, students had to HELP STIR them all up.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Each student had to request a plate and a croissant.  Once they had each item, they had to request some chicken salad.  If they were not given as much as they wanted, they had to request MORE.

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

For the most part, our students enjoyed making and eating their croissant sandwich!  It was a pretty good croissant celebration 🙂

 

 

 

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

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Dec15

Winter Holidays Around The World

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Winter Holidays Around The World

This week we learned about winter celebrations in other countries. This compliments the student’s Unique Curriculum unit for the month. The sensory groups explored boxes related to different holidays. The fine motor groups made some colorful art projects used during the language group’s holiday parade and party.

 

 

 

 

 

SENSORY GROUP

On December 8, Buddhists celebrate Bodhi day. One of the ways they celebrate is to decorate a Bodhi tree with colorful lights.

 

 

 

 

 

We made a Bodhi tree umbrella using colorful lights and heart shaped leaves.

Science access point: recognize a source of light.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Hanukkah is known as the festival of lights during which, for eight days, a candle is lit on a menorah.

 

 

 

 

 

Wikki Stix are strings covered in wax—-just like candles! Since dreidels are also symbols of Hanukkah, we included some of them in this box.

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

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Kwanzaa begins on December 26 and it celebrates African American heritage.

 

 

 

 

 

The students sorted pompoms in the colors of Kwanzaa—-black, green, and red.

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

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Las Posadas is celebrated in Mexico. We put letters L and P in a box of rice in the colors of the Mexican flag.

 

 

 

 

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

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

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Junkanoo is celebrated in the Caribbean with lots of parades and music.

 

 

 

 

 

There were feather boas, masks, and noise makers.

Parade music recorded on a voice output device added to the fun.

 

 

 

 

 

Our students totally know how to rock a look!

Social studies access point: associate a celebration with an event, such as a holiday.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Natilla Colombiana is often eaten during Navidad en Colombia.

 

 

 

 

 

 

We made our messy play version using oobleck dusted with cinnamon—-it is a shame it doesn’t taste as good as it looks 🙂

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

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

In China they celebrate the winter solstice or Dongzhi festival. During the festival people eat Tang Yuan which are glutinous rice balls served in boiling water.

 

 

 

The students used a soup ladle to scoop 3 plastic “rice balls” out of warmish water.

Math access point: associate quantities with number names.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Our scent for the unit was Bath and Body Works winter candy apple. We chose the scent as a reminder of all the sweet treats people eat during the holidays.

 

 

 

 

The sweet scent was very popular!

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

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Like the people who celebrated the Hindu festival of Diwali we finished with some fireworks, although ours were of the bubble wrap kind 🙂

 

 

 

 

 

There were lots of giggles with this activity!

Science access point: observe and recognize a predictable cause-effect relationship related to a science topic.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The students had a BLAST!!!!!

So many giggles!!!!!!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

FINE MOTOR GROUP

On Tuesday, the students made Diwali lamps out of paper plates.

First, the students identified the shape of their plate.

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

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

After choosing a color, the students used markers to color their plates.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Some of the students used a switch operated vibrating massager with a marker attached with velcro.

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

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Next, we folded the paper plates in half and glued a flame on top and……….

Ta Da!!!

 

 

 

 

Let’s celebrate Diwali!

 

 

 

 

 

 

On Wednesday, the students made colorful costumes to wear during the Junkanoo parade.

First, they identified the shape of their paper.

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

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

They used paper cutters and switch operated scissors to cut the paper into strips.

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

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Then, they glued the pieces down on to another sheet of paper. Of course, we counted the pieces!

Math access point: associate quantities with number names.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Next, it was time to add glitter—–shake, shake, shake that glitter!

Singing our glitter song always makes it more fun 🙂

 

 

 

 

 

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

 

 

 

 

 

 

TA DA!!!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

There are a few more things that will be added later but…….

……….we are almost ready…………

for the Junkanoo parade!!!!!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

LANGUAGE GROUP

We had a Junkanoo parade and holiday party this week and it was lots of fun!

Our language group students got to wear what they had made in the fine motor group earlier in the week.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Staff joined in also 🙂

 

 

 

 

 

 

Students got to shake rattles and we also had Junkanoo parade music playing as we walked along!

 

 

 

 

 

Students and staff lined the hallways.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

We even had Santa Claus make an appearance.

One of our students wore the costume and he did an awesome job with the part 🙂

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

All the onlookers cheered as we went by!

 

 

 

 

 

 

Smiles were everywhere.

 

 

 

 

 

It was quite exciting and…….

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

………..so much fun!

 

 

 

 

 

After the parade, everyone gathered for some snacks, drinks, and socialization.  Students used sentence strips that were located on the tables to indicate what they wanted.

 

 

 

 

They had lots of tasty choices!

 

 

 

 

 

They enjoyed dancing and taking pictures with their classmates and friends.

We had some great music that you might hear during a Junkanoo parade playing in the background.

 

 

 

Adults and students seemed to have a wonderful time celebrating all of the different winter holidays together!

 

 

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

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Nov10

JK Rowling

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JK Rowling

November 1 is International Author’s Day so we decided to learn about one of the most popular authors on the planet! Our sensory groups explored boxes related to JK Rowling and her books.  The fine motor groups made simple but magical art projects and the language group made a yummy magical treat!

 

 

 

 

SENSORY GROUP

There were lots of things to discover in this box. We started with a base of shredded paper—-JK Rowling wrote BOOKS after all 🙂 There were some plush and laminated characters from her books as well.

 

 

 

 

Of course, the wizard hat, Harry Potter glasses, and “magic” wands were especially popular. We also included items such as pink beads (her favorite color), a British flag, and some play food sushi (her favorite food).

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

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

In blue and white rice were letters J and K as well as a picture of the Scottish flag at the bottom of the box.

 

 

 

 

 

We picked the rice colors to match the colors of the Scottish flag. JK Rowling wrote Harry Potter books in Edinburg Scotland.

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

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

JK Rowling came up with the idea for the Harry Potter series while on a train. We put a wooden train engine (actually a chunky puzzle piece) in some tea leaves—-we figured since JK Rowling is British she MUST drink tea 🙂

 

 

 

 

There were a couple of train pictures to find at the bottom of the box.

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

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The students sorted pompoms in the colors of the different Hogwarts houses.

 

 

 

 

 

Red for Gryffindor, blue for Ravenclaw, yellow for Hufflepuff, and green for Slytherin.

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

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Since our school mascot is the owl, we HAD to dedicate a box the Harry Potter’s owl Hedwig!

 

 

 

 

 

 

Two owls—-1 big and 1 small as well as a fluffy feather boa made this a very touchable box!

Math access point: recognize differences in size of objects.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Oobleck in JK Rowling’s favorite color became a little more magical with the addition of some shiny confetti.

 

 

 

 

 

 

The confetti was fun to watch as it swirled around or dripped down the oobleck.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Science access point: track objects in motion.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Mermaids and sea serpents are some of the magical creatures found in JK Rowling’s books.

Two different sized measuring cups and a funnel added to the fun in our water play this week.

 

 

 

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

 

 

 

 

 

Bath and Body Works vanilla sugar was as close we could get to Butterbeer, but we think it totally worked.

 

 

 

 

 

 

The sweet scent left our students with yummy memories of all the fun we had!

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

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

FINE MOTOR GROUP

On Tuesday we made some wizard hats!

First, the students identified the color BLACK and a TRIANGLE.

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

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

 

 

 

 

 

Then, the students used paper cutters or switch operated scissors to cut a triangle out of black paper.

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

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Next, they stamped golden swirls on to their hats.

 

 

 

 

 

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

 

 

 

 

 

TA DA!!!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

What cute little wizards!!!!!

 

 

 

 

 

On Wednesday, we made magic wands out of sticks.

First, the students chose a wand and identified  the color of their chenille stem.

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

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Then, they wrapped the chenille stem around the stick.

 

 

 

 

 

 

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

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The tip of the wand was dipped into glue and then some gold glitter.

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

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

TA DA!!!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Time for a little magic…..

……our wizards are ready for work 🙂

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

LANGUAGE GROUP

We had lots of fun making cute little edible owls this week!  Here’s the recipe we used: Let’s Make An Edible Owl

The students first had to indicate that they WANTED a rice cake.  Then they had to locate PEANUT BUTTER to request it.

Students were given the small container of peanut butter.  If they were unable to open it, they had to request HELP.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Students then had to SPREAD the peanut butter on the rice cake.  Again, if this task was challenging, they had to request HELP.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Next, each student got 2 slices of banana and 2 blueberries to serve as the eyes.  They counted out each fruit as they received them.  They had to PUT the bananas and blueberries at the TOP of the rice cake.

Then, they had to request 2 apple slices and PUT them on the SIDES of the rice cake.  We compared these “wings” to our arms.

 

 

Students got to PUT 1 dried cranberry beak on their owl, making sure to put it UNDER the eyes.

 

 

 

 

 

Finally, they added some Cheerios as feathers.  Each student was given only 1 or 2 Cheerios at first and had to request MORE.

These turned out so cute…..

 

 

 

 

…….and yummy!

 

 

 

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

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Oct27

Monet

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Monet

October 25 is International Artist’s Day so this week we are learning about Monet. Our sensory groups explored colorful boxes related to the artist. The fine motor groups made Pinterest inspired art projects and the language group made a Monet inspired treat!

 

 

 

 

SENSORY GROUP

This box contained a variety of items related to facts about Monet—-including play food and a grocery basket that represented the family business. Monet served in the calvary so we put in a soldier and horse. Of course, we also included a paint brush, paint, and flowers!

 

 

There were 2 colored plexiglass panels that let the students see the world in a different light—like Monet!

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

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

We put beads in the color of the French flag in this box.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Whether shaken, worn, or just admired—these beads were a hit.

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

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

This colorful pasta reminded us of the beautiful colors in Monet’s paintings.

 

 

 

 

 

There were also letter M’s to find.

Science access point: recognize objects as the same.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Some of Monet’s most famous paintings are of gardens. Our coffee ground dirt contained colorful flower bangles and a small rake.

 

 

 

 

 

A picture of one of Monet’s paintings could be found at the bottom of the box.

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

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

We continued with the flower theme  cookie cutters and yellow moon sand.

 

 

 

 

 

 

The bright yellow sand was very eye catching and its soft texture very appealing.

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

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The students became artists by making their own masterpieces in our multicolored oobleck around.

 

 

 

 

 

The colors looked so cool as they swirled around—–very eye catching!

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

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Our little pond contained some water lillies and a small goldfish.

 

 

 

 

 

 

There were also 2 measuring cups and a fun watering can!

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

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

A pretty floral scent seemed the perfect choice for a unit about Monet. We used Bath and Body Works sweet pea scent for our water play and lotion.

 

 

 

 

 

The students left group smelling like they just walked in Monet’s garden 🙂

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

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

FINE MOTOR GROUP

On Tuesday we made lily pad ponds.

First, we identified the shape of the plate.

Math access point:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Blue and green paint was squirted onto paper and the students began painting. We realized we added a little too much green so our ponds ended up looking like they have a little too much algae 🙂

 

 

 

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

 

 

 

 

 

Lily pads and cupcake liner were then glued to the picture and……..

 

 

 

 

 

 

TA—–Monet—— DA!!!

 

 

 

 

 

 

On Wednesday we made a garden painting. One of our volunteers taped down a “bridge” on each of the papers.

First, the students identified their starting paint color.

 

 

 

 

 

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

 

 

 

 

 

The students painted for about 10 seconds and when time was up, they shared their paint with their neighbors!

 

 

 

 

 

Science access point: share objects with a partner.

 

 

 

 

 

After we finished rotating through the paint colors, the masking tape was peeled off—-with a little help from the adults. Then, a paper towel was placed over the picture to blot the paint.

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

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

TA DA!!!!!!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Look at our gardens!

Monet would approve 🙂

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

LANGUAGE GROUP

We made some edible art this week and it turned out looking so good!

Each student got to choose a pastel color.  Once they chose a color, they got a couple spoonfuls of frosting with some food coloring.  They had to STIR up the frosting until it changed colors.

We had 7 different colors to use.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

We counted out plates for the students and then counted out graham crackers for our students to use to “paint” on.

Each student got a little of each color of frosting on their graham cracker.  Once each color was passed to each student, they started to create their art.

 

 

The colors blending into each other was really beautiful!  Some students added some pastel sprinkles on top for texture.

 

 

 

 

 

And as hard as it was for our students to WAIT to eat their creation until they were all done, they did it!  Look at how great they turned out!

 

 

 

 

 

 

Yummy, beautiful art 🙂

 

 

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

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Oct13

Vermont

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Vermont

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

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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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Sep14

Puerto Rico

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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!

May19

Graduation

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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!

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