Tag Archives: play dough

Feb16

Fun Facts About Presidents

Posted on February 16, 2020 by jd785

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

SENSORY GROUP

President Kennedy’s family came from Ireland.

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

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

President Obama was born in Hawaii.

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

Science access point: recognize objects as the same.

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

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

Science access point: match animals that are the same.

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

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

Math access point: associate quantities with number names.

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

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

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

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

Needless to say, the students had a blast!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

FINE MOTOR GROUP

On Tuesday we made dimes out of paper plates.

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

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

Then, the students painted their plates with silver paint.

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

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

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

TA DA!!!!

We made dimes!

Anybody need some spare change 🙂

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

First, the students identified the shape of the money.

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

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

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

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

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

TA DA!!!!

Look at all the Presidents!

Let’s go shopping!!!

LANGUAGE GROUP

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

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

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

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

Math access point: recognize differences in size of objects.

When the ingredients were all in the bowl, each student had a TURN using the wireless switch to turn on the mixer.

This is always fun for our students.

Each time someone took a TURN, we LOOKED in the bowl to see if we needed to mix MORE or if we were ALL DONE.

Once it was DONE, we observed how it had changed from a liquid to a solid.

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

We counted out cups for each student. We layered red Jell-o, whipped cream, blue Jell-o, and then MORE whipped cream.

Each student had to request each part of the snack using their communication boards.

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

After they indicated that they needed a spoon to eat with, they dug in.

These were so pretty looking and were pretty tasty too 🙂

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

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Nov2

Watch Out For Monsters!

Posted on November 2, 2019 by jd785

Watch Out For Monsters!

For our final October unit, we were inspired by the Scooby Doo series! The sensory groups explored boxes highlighting different villains of the series. The fine motor groups crafted some fun projects and the language group hosted a monster party!

SENSORY GROUP

There were all sorts of items to discover in this box. There were laminated and plush characters from the series, a treasure chest, plastic footprint, furry werewolf fur, and a vampire puppet.

Of course we included a voice output device with the Scooby Doo theme song!

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

There were four spooky bats to find in a box of black beans and rice. There were 2 white and 2 grey to compare and contrast.

As usual, it was also fun to run fingers through the beans.

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

The students used Mr. Potato Head and pumpkin accessories to turn make their own Frankenstein monsters in green Bubber.

We think their creations turned out pretty cool!

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

Cookie cutters in bone and dog shapes cut orange play dough into Scooby snacks!

Orange Kool-aid made the play dough not only look good but smell good too!

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

Strips of gauze were wrapped around a doll to turn it into a Mummy! We also included some small plastic mummy figures as well as a discovery bottle filled with sand and jewels!

Sometimes the doll got wrapped—-and sometimes the student was 🙂

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

The students made ghosts with shaving foam.

We included some “ghostly” features made from black craft foam.

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

There was an old pirate shipwreck at the bottom of the water tub this week.

Two different sized measuring cups were included for scooping fun.

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

Bath and Body Works twilight woods seemed a good spooky choice this week.

The aroma was a hit with the students!

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

FINE MOTOR GROUP

On Tuesday we made different monsters out of cereal boxes using this template: monster template

First, we identified the shape of the cereal boxes.

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

Some of the students painted their boxes green.

Then, they added Frankenstein facial features, hair, and scars.

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

Other students worked on their Vampire and Mummy boxes.

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

TA—-rut rho—– DA!!!!

SPOOKY!!!!

These are some cute monsters 🙂

On Wednesday the students made a fun poster.

First, the students identified the paint colors.

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

Everyone took turns painting the “swampy” background.

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

Then, we put some spooky trees, bats, ghosts, and a full moon! The bats and ghosts were traced from cookie cutters. The tree was free form cut.

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

We put our students’ photos in a Mystery Machine and added that to the poster.

TA—-Scooby Dooby Doo—–Da!!!!

LANGUAGE GROUP

We had an eerily good time in our language group this week. We decided to have a party and of course we invited all of the classrooms that participate in our groups to come along.

Some of the students and staff got dressed up in DIFFERENT costumes. We didn’t have a parade this time, so everyone went straight to the party room.

We decorated the room with lots of different Halloween and monster decorations.

Students and staff also got to take pictures in front of the background for our book. We had also props 🙂

Of course, we also had some snacks. Students got to choose what they WANTED to eat. There were sentence strips set out for each option they had: candy corn, marshmallows, chips, and cookies.

They could also choose to drink “bug juice” or “blue goo” (dressed up Gatorade).

The music got everyone in the mood to dance.

It was so much fun!

A great time to practice socializing 🙂

We had a hauntingly good week and hope yours was as much fun as ours. Join us next time for more fun and learning—–Group by Group!

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Feb17

Oregon

Posted on February 17, 2019 by jd785

Oregon

February 14, 1859 Oregon became a state! The sensory groups explored boxes related to different facts about the state. The fine motor groups crafted Pinterest inspired art projects and the language group made a yummy snack with the state nut.

SENSORY GROUP

Paper shred in the colors of the state flag made the base of this box. We included symbols and items associated with Oregon. A duck puppet represented the University of Oregon ducks. Wood processing, a major industry was represented by a piece of wood.

Our western meadowlark (the state bird) was motion sensitive and the students loved hearing it chirp!

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

The letter O and some scoops were found in blue and yellow rice. There was also a map of Oregon at the bottom of the box.

The students also loved watching the grains of rice as they dropped from the spoons.

Science access point: track a falling object.

The Blue Mountains are a feature of Oregon. The students had fun molding their own blue mountains out of Floam. There were also a couple of laminated hikers to add to the scene.

The bright blue Floam was very eye catching!

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

We found out that they have lots of mushroom festivals in Oregon—how cool is that! There were lots of mushrooms to find in this box of play dirt.

In addition to some laminated mushrooms, there were 3 pictures of mushrooms to find at the bottom of the box.

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

Oregon may have gotten its name from the wild sage that grows there. We added some herbs of the not so wild kind to our play dough this week and included a cute duck cookie cutter.

It was also fun to poke, squeeze, and roll.

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

Students made circles or letter O in shaving cream this week.

We have been doing a lot of shaving cream lately, but the students always like it and its pretty inexpensive.

Science access point: demonstrate pushing away and pulling.

The oregon grape is the state flower, so we added some grape scented bubble bath to our water this week. There was 1 big duck and 3 little ducks swimming in our little pond along with different sized scoops.

To add to the fun, the ducks lit up when wet!

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

Pears are the state fruit of Oregon, so we chose Bath and Body Works pear lotion this week. It was a nice fruity scent which the students liked.

The students chose to have the lotion applied to their hands, arms, ears, or neck.

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

FINE MOTOR GROUP

On Wednesday the students made lighthouses out of paper cups!

First, they identified the color of the cup using communication symbols. Since the alternate assessment testing will be starting soon we had the students pick from an array of 3 answers which is similar to the testing format.

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

Then, they cut 1 piece of paper into halves using a paper cutter.

Math access point: recognize parts of whole objects and parts of sets of objects.

The 2 strips of paper and a paper door were then glued to the cup.

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

A small battery operated tea light was put on top.

Math access point: identify spatial relationships.

TA DA!!!

Let there be light!

On Thursday the students made beaver masks using paper plates.

First, they identified the shape of the paper plate.

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

Then they painted their plates with brown paint.

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

Pre-made ears and muzzles were added.

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

TA DA!!!!!!

We love the beaver state!

LANGUAGE GROUP

Since hazelnuts are one of the state foods of Oregon, we made a recipe using Nutella! Here’s the recipe we used: Let’s Make A Banana Nutella Smoothie

We started out by PUTTING 2 frozen cut up bananas into the blender. Before we PUT them in, though, each student got to touch the bag of frozen bananas. They indicated whether it felt COLD or HOT.

Science access point: recognize an object as warm or cold.

Next, we PUT 2 cups of milk into the blender. The students were shown a cup and a tablespoon. They had to identify which one could hold MORE milk.

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

We PUT 2 tablespoons of Nutella in the blender next. Again, the students were shown a cup and a tablespoon and were told to identify which could hold LESS since we did not need as much of the Nutella as we did the milk.

Before we added the Nutella, the students got to taste a sample—-they liked it!

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

Finally, we PUT some cocoa mix into the blender. We got to smell the cocoa mix and our students indicated whether they thought it smelled GOOD or BAD.

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

Each student got to HELP TURN on the blender by activating the wireless switch.

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

Once the ingredients were smooth, each student had to request a cup by indicating that they WANTED some.

If they were not given a lot, they had to indicate that they wanted MORE.

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

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Jan20

Chocolate

Posted on January 20, 2019 by jd785

Chocolate

January 10 is Bittersweet Chocolate Day so this week we are all about CHOCOLATE! Our sensory groups explored chocolate themed boxes. The fine motor groups painted some sweet art projects and the language group made a very tasty chocolate treat! The students are learning about properties of matter with their Unique Curriculum this month and this unit complemented it quite nicely.

SENSORY GROUP

Chocolate comes from the cocoa bean. We didn’t have any cocoa beans on hand, so we substituted with coffee beans—-they look pretty similar.

The students searched for letter C’s in the beans.

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

Pompoms were sorted into either a cute heart shaped candy tin for the BROWN chocolate ones or a white “candy dish” for the WHITE chocolate ones.

Of course, sometimes it was fun just to grab a handful and enjoy the pompoms’ soft and squishy texture!

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

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

Our chocolate scented play dough was pretty realistic looking AND smelling!

The adults definitely kept a close eye on things with this box 🙂 The students cut “chocolate donuts” or made their own candy creations.

There was also a pastry wheel that made some fun patterns in the play dough.

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

Chocolate cake mix made perfect cloud dough! It was fun to scoop, mold, or squeeze through fingers.

A little messy, but a really fun sensory experience that smelled good too! The students were really intrigued with this box!

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

We wanted to add a little bit of color to this unit, so we brought out our colorful candy colored rice. There were some “cocoa” beans to find as well as play food candy, chocolate, and two different sized cookies. This rice was really eye catching!

Underneath the rice were pictures of chocolate candy.

Science access point: recognize the larger of two objects.

A little cocoa powder added to oobleck made for a fun chocolate river.

This was really MESSY but really FUN 🙂

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

There was a little teapot and water wheel in our water basin this week.

Once the first student rinsed their hands, our water play turned into a chocolate fountain!

Science access point: recognize water as a liquid.

We couldn’t find any chocolate scented lotion, so we used a chocolate scented LipSmacker to apply our signature scent to wrists or behind ears.

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

FINE MOTOR GROUP

On Wednesday the students made candy apples using purchased craft foam apple shapes!

First, they identified the color of their apples.

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

We mixed a little glue with the brown paint and painted our apples. The popsicle stick already taped to the apple made it easy to hold.

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

Then, we added some confetti sprinkles (the glue in the paint helped make sure it stuck) and of course, we sang our glitter song 🙂

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

TA—-yummy—-DA!

Candy apples………

……they look good enough to eat!

On Thursday the students made chocolate chip cookies using paper plates.

First, they identified the shape of paper plate.

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

Then, they painted their paper plates with brown paint.

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

Next, the students let us know how many chocolate chips they wanted on their cookie.

Math access point: associate quantities with number names.

The pre-cut chips were added and the glue we had added to the paint helped them stick.

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

TA DA!

Time for cookies!!!

LANGUAGE GROUP

We got to make a nice and chocolatey treat this week for language group. This week we made chocolate mousse using this recipe: let_s make chocolate mousse

**Words in caps are the words targeted on their communication boards**

We started out by talking about how we were going to MAKE chocolate mousse.

The first thing we did was PUT a box of instant chocolate pudding mix into the BOWL. Whichever student WANTed to HELP had to raise their hand and indicate HELP on their board.

Next, we PUT 2 tbsp of cocoa powder into the BOWL. Each student had to identify the tablespoon when presented with a cup and a tablespoon. They were told that the tablespoon was the LITTLE one. We talked about how using the wrong kitchen tool could ruin the recipe.

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

For the final ingredient (only 3 ingredients…yay!) we PUT some heavy cream into the BOWL. This time, the students were presented with a cup and a 1/2 cup.

They were told to identify the BIG one.

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

Each student got a chance to press the switch to make the mixer TURN. Our mousse formed really fast, so each student just got a little chance to press the switch.

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

When it was ready, each student got a small amount of mousse and no spoon. They had to indicate that they needed a SPOON and that they wanted MORE.

We think we’d all like to do a chocolate theme each week 🙂

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

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Nov11

We Salute The Troops

Posted on November 11, 2018 by jd785

We Salute The Troops

We learned about our armed forces this week. The sensory groups explored boxes dedicated to different services branches. The fine motor groups decorated service vehicles with camouflage and the language group made a patriotic treat.

SENSORY GROUP

This box was dedicated to animal mascots—-goat for the Navy, bulldog for the Marines, bear for the Coast Guard, mule for the Army, and falcon for the Air Force. There were plush or laminated pictures of each of the mascots in this box. The Marine Corps hymn was recorded on a voice out put device and also placed in this box.

Social studies access point: recognize a patriotic song.

A little Coast Guard ship roamed around this blue kinetic sand ocean.

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

There were 6 (3 in green and 3 in desert uniforms) Army soldiers to find in this box of “camouflage” beans. It was made by combining a variety of dried beans and we think it looks pretty cool.

Math access point: solve simple problems involving joining sets of objects with the same quantity to 3.

We went pretty patriotic with the play dough this week—-we had red, white, and blue! The students used cookie cutters with letter M (for Marines) and a star shape.

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

Our rice was red, white, and blue too! There was a picture of planes to find at the bottom of the box and a little plane to fly around in the rice. There were also 3 letter A’s—-for Air Force.

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

A little Air Force jet flew around in some fluffy shaving cream clouds for our messy play this week.

Science access point: track objects in motion.

A Navy ship and a Navy submarine floated around our ocean. There were 2 different sized measuring cups included for scooping fun.

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

We went with Bath and Body Works ocean scent this week—-in honor of the Navy and Coast Guard armed forces.

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

FINE MOTOR GROUP

On Wednesday the students tore green, brown, and tan paper into pieces and glued them onto an Army transport truck using this template: army truck

First, using communication symbols the students identified the colors BLACK, GREEN, and BROWN.

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

They tore BIG pieces paper into SMALL pieces.

Math access point: recognize differences in size of objects.

Then they glued the pieces of paper DOWN on to their trucks.

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

TA DA!!!!!!

Go ARMY!!!!!!

On Thursday the students painted fighter jets using this template: fighter jet

First, they identified the colors of the paint.

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

After paint was added to a stamper, the students stamped UP and DOWN on their jets. We made the stampers by adding foam stickers to some kitchen scrubbers.

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

TA DA!!!!!

Go Air Force!!!!

LANGUAGE GROUP

In honor of Veterans Day, we made some edible American flags during the language group. Here is the recipe that we used: Let_s Make Edible American Flags

We started by each student getting 1 graham cracker. In order to get the graham cracker, they had to request it using WANT and then pointing to the picture of the graham cracker. When asked where the graham cracker should be put, our students had to indicate PUT and then point to the picture of the plate.

Next, each student got a spoonful of vanilla frosting. They had to spread it on the cracker, asking for HELP if they needed it.

Once it was spread, each student got to lick the spoon. They had to indicate whether it tasted SWEET or SOUR.

Each student then got 4 blueberries. If they were not given the entire amount, they had to request MORE. They had to follow the direction to PUT the blueberries in the top left corner.

Then, they each got some cut up strawberries. They had to follow the direction to PUT the strawberries in lines on the cracker. If they did not have enough, they had to request MORE.

Once they were ALL DONE, they had to indicate that they wanted to EAT the edible flag.

Yummy AND patriotic!

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

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Oct7

Italy

Posted on October 7, 2018 by jd785

Italy

Ciao—-October is Italian-American Heritage month! Our guidance counselor got to visit Italy over the summer and shared some fabulous photos with us, some of which we used for our book. The sensory groups explored boxes related to facts about Italy. The fine motor groups made art projects inspired by Italian symbols and the language group made an Italian inspired treat!

SENSORY GROUP

Letters that spelled “Italy” were found in this box of red, white, and green rice—-the colors of the Italian flag.

There was a map to find at the bottom of the box. We also added 2 different sized measuring cups for scooping fun.

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

We used red, white, and green paper shred as the base of this box filled with Italian symbols (postcards of famous buildings) and inventions (eyeglasses).

Other items included an “Italian wolf”, flag, pizza printed oven mitt, a Lamborghini car, and a fashion model. We recorded some authentic Italian music on a voice output device and it was a hit enjoyed by all!

Associate an object, picture, or symbol with a location is a social studies access point.

Red and green glitter and green rosemary were added to our play dough, so it was not only colorful but also smelled ohh so good!

Italy is said to look like a boot so, we used boot shaped cookie cutters this week.

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

We had a little fun with this next box dedicated to our favorite Italian meal—-spaghetti and meatballs! Plastic spaghetti strings and soft brown pompom “meatballs” made for some interesting shape and texture comparisons.

The students had a blast with the tongs we included.

Counting the meatballs added to a plate addresses the math access point associate quantities with number names.

The students made their own colosseum using grey Floam. Laminated pictures of ancient romans and a chariot were included.

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

There are 3 active volcanos in Italy! We turned our oobleck into lava by adding some food coloring and crackling pop rocks.

So much fun!

The science access point distinguish between objects in motion (kinetic energy) and at rest can be addressed here.

In addition to a little gondola, there was a scoop, small fishing net and fish to catch in our water play this week.

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

We used grape scented bubble bath in our water and pear scented lotion to represent some of the fruit grown in Italy.

Use senses to recognize objects is a science access point.

FINE MOTOR GROUP

On Wednesday students painted a colosseum using this: romancolesseum

First, the students identified the color of our paint.

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

Then we gave the students their colosseum page and asked them to CRUMPLE it up! The students were not quite sure what to do—-we usually ask them to STOP crumpling paper 🙂

Recognize changes in observable properties of objects is a science access point.

Next, they spread the paper back out, we think the crumpling gave it an aged appearance! Diluted paint was used so we could continue to see the details of the picture.

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

We laid a paper towel on top of their picture to help absorb extra paint and then the 2 layers turned over. Glue was squeezed over the back and then the picture was turned back over onto a piece of background paper. The paper towel was then removed and thrown away.

This method helps reduce the amount of paint that gets on fingers—–and everywhere else!

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

TA DA!

Let’s visit Italy!

On Thursday the students practiced their cutting skills making an Italian flag.

They identified the colors found in the flag using communication symbols.

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

Next, they used paper cutters or scissors to cut 1 red and 1 green strip of paper.

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

They glued their paper strips down onto a piece of white paper. We helped the students by pointing out which side each color went.

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

TA DA!

Viva Italia!

LANGUAGE GROUP

We tasted a bit of Italy during our language group this week. We made some mini pizzas! Here is the recipe that we used: Let_s Make Mini Pizzas!

First, we PUT 1/2 of an English muffin on a paper plate. Each student had to request a plate by indicating WANT and then pointing to the picture of the paper plate. We talked about how 1/2 of an English muffin was LESS than a WHOLE English muffin.

Solve simple real-world problems involving joining or separating small quantities of objects.

Next, we put 2 spoonfuls of pizza sauce on the English muffin. Each student had to indicate WANT and then had to help count out 2 spoonfuls. Our students then got to SPREAD the sauce around.

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

Then they got to decide whether or not they wanted pepperoni on their pizza. They indicated either YES or NO. If they indicated YES, then they got to decide how many pepperoni’s they wanted by pointing to either 1, 2, or 3 on a number line.

Associate quantities with number names is a math access point.

To top the pizza off, each student was given some cheese. At first, they were only given a few pieces. They had to request MORE if they wanted more.

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

Time to heat up our pizza! One of our students is learning to use the microwave, so he helped out with heating the pizzas up. After they were done cooking, he delivered them to his friends.

We talked about how the pizza was HOT and we needed to let it COOL down. After it cooled down we cut the pizza into bite sized pieces.

Recognize parts of whole objects and parts of sets of objects is a math access point.

Finally it was time to eat! YUUUUMMM!!

The students really enjoyed all our fun activities this week, thank you for joining us! Remember, don’t forget to look for your confirmation email if you want to follow us. If you don’t see it—-check your SPAM folder!

Arrivederci and come back next time for more fun and learning—-Group by Group!

Sep23

Whoo’s Who at School

Posted on September 23, 2018 by jd785

Whoo’s Who at School

This week our book focused on what some of the adults, such as the registrar, resource officer, and bus coordinator, do at school. Our sensory group boxes were themed around some of these jobs. The fine motor groups made thank-you cards and the language group passed these cards out to those featured in our book. This theme compliments this month’s Unique Curriculum unit on Community Leaders.

SENSORY GROUP

Our reading coach box had a base of paper shred—of course! We also put in some books, toy figures from books, and word cards. One of the books had buttons that made noise when pressed which made it quite popular with the students.

The language access point identify characters or objects in familiar stories can be addressed here.

Our registrar deals with lots of NUMBERS, so we put some numbers for our students to find in our blue and yellow rice. Blue and yellow are our school colors. There was also a picture of a school to find at the bottom of the box.

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

Our yellow play dough had blue confetti mixed in it. With school colors and a cookie cutter in the shape of our mascot, the owl, we decided to call this the ” Principal Play Dough”.

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

There were some toy medical items along with medicine cups and a little “student” in our school nurse box. Not only was the bear fun to take care of, but he made funny little noises when squeezed. The stethoscope, however, was the hit of this box!

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

The bus coordinator’s box featured the letters B U S to find and a toy bus in our box of dried bean “gravel”.

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

To represent our lunchroom staff we went with some real food for our messy play this week—-jello! There were some play foods and a variety of play kitchen tools in the box and at the bottom was a picture of some healthy foods to eat.

This was definitely a messy box and not all our students were that enthusiastic about exploring it, but those who did had a blast!

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

We are lucky enough to have swimming as part of our PE program at school. Our little miniature pool had some pool noodles, scoops, and a funnel. Lots of fun here!

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

Back to the cafeteria for our scent this week. We went with mango mandarin from Bath and Body Works.

It had a nice citrusy smell that students liked on their arms, hands, or behind ears.

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

FINE MOTOR GROUP

On Tuesday the students made thank you cards for the staff featured in our book.

First, we used communication symbols to identify the shape of our paper.

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

Next, the students folded their paper in half to make a card. They had to press down along the edge to make a crease.

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

Using a glue stick, the students adhered a piece of paper with the words “thank you for all you do to help our school” onto the inside of their cards. They had to turn the paper over so that it would stick!

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

The students used foam stamps to paint 2 different figures (a boy and a girl) onto their cards. With each stamp, we emphasized that they were to only stamp 1 time.

Associate quantities with number names is a math access point.

TA——thank you—— DA!

We made some super cute cards!

On Thursday the students made more thank you cards!

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

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

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

Like our Wednesday group, the students folded their paper in half to make a card and pressed down along the edge to make a crease.

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

Using a glue stick, the students adhered a piece of paper with the words “thank you for all you do to help our school” onto the inside of their cards.

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

Next, the students used markers to draw stems and vines onto the front of their cards.

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

The students moved an empty plastic bottle UP and DOWN to stamp blue flowers. We have used this technique before and it is always a hit!

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

TA DA!!!!

Fabulous thank you cards!

LANGUAGE GROUP

For this week’s language group activity, we handed out some of the thank you cards we made earlier in the week.

For our first stop, we visited the front office.

The students were instructed to GIVE the card to our honoree.

The phrase “thank you for all you do for our school” was recorded on a voice output device.

Everybody loved their cards!

We showed the students the cards we had left and asked them if we were FINISHED or if we had MORE to deliver! Everyone agreed there were more cards to hand out!

More cards meant MORE SMILES 🙂

Thank you for joining us this week for more fun and learning—–Group by Group!

Don’t forget if you follow us, you HAVE to click on the confirmation email that gets sent to use (and be sure to check your SPAM folder because it sometimes ends up there).

Sep2

Let’s Go On A Cruise

Posted on September 2, 2018 by jd785

Let’s Go On A Cruise

Welcome back! We hope everyone had a fun filled summer. Cara, our SLP had an especially wonderful one—-she welcomed the most beautiful baby boy to her family! With Cara on maternity leave, Joi and Joy will be doing a little scrambling to fill her shoes—-so bear with us for the next few weeks until she gets back 🙂 Thankfully Ms. Robin and Ms. Nancy are also helping us out with communication supports!

For our first theme we are chose to feature photos from some of our teachers who were lucky enough to go on a cruise over the summer! Our sensory boxes focused on places you might go or things you might see on a cruise. The fine motor groups made boat related art projects and the language group had fun comparing a cruise to Alaska and a cruise to The Bahamas.

SENSORY GROUP

With our vibrating massager and recorded cruise ship sounds on a voice output device our students got to experience some of the feel of being on a cruise. There was also a glittery ocean themed discovery bottle.

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

The vibrating tube was a big hit with the students 🙂

Tropical islands are popular cruise ship destinations. There were shells, a great big plastic foot for making footprints in the sand, some little palm trees, and a little crab hanging out on the beach.

The students found everything to be pretty intriguing!

The sifter spoon we included was especially fun!

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

Our Disney cruise box included a variety of Disney paraphernalia such as cartoon figures and a set of Mickey Mouse ears. We also put in some sunglasses, beads, and some play food! Lots to explore and discover in this box.

The language access point communicate recognition of familiar objects can be addressed here.

The Mickey Mouse ears were especially popular….

our students totally rock a hat 🙂

There were 2 polar bears ( thank you Ms. Caressa) and a little seal playing in the snow of our Alaska cruise box. There was also a small shovel for scooping fun.

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

Neon food coloring made this bright ocean blue play dough really eye catching! The students cut out boats and dolphins using cookie cutters.

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

This was an especially popular box this week!

We encouraged the students to make wavy motions in our shaving cream “ocean foam”.

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

Different animals might be spotted from a cruise ship, so we included a seal, dolphin, whale, and fun penguin strainer in our water play.

A little boat and measuring cup scoop added to the fun.

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

Bath and Body Works coconut scented lotion was a perfect end to our group this week. The students really liked the aroma.

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

FINE MOTOR GROUP

On Wednesday we made cruise ship port holes using paper plates.

First the students identified a circle using communication symbols.

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

They chose which color marker they wanted to use.

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

Then they used dot markers to decorate the front of their port holes. We asked the students to stamp UP and DOWN.

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

They identified their photos and glued them on to paper plates.

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

Adults stapled the 2 paper plates together and……

TA DA! Time to set sail!

On Thursday the students used corn syrup paint and this to make their art project: Cruise ship template

First, using communication symbols or AAC devices, they identified the color of the paper.

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

Next, they glued their ship DOWN on to the paper.

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

We poured some corn syrup (tinted with blue food coloring) over the paper and the students used their brushes to spread it around the paper.

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

TA DA!!

Anchors Aweigh!

LANGUAGE GROUP

This week we asked the students to identify whether a presented item went with a cruise to The Bahamas or Alaska. The adults emphasized that in the Bahamas it’s HOT and in Alaska it’s COLD. In addition to visual supports we used actual objects or models. The social studies access point associate a picture with a place is addressed in this activity.

Here are some of the questions we asked:

If you went to The Bahamas would you need a parka or a bathing suit?

If you went to Alaska would you need a hat to shade your eyes or to keep your ears warm?

Would you see polar bears or parrots in Alaska?

If you went to Alaska would you have a snowball fight or play in the sand?

What kind of food would you eat in the Bahamas—-Alaskan salmon or bananas?

Our students needed a few prompts in order to correctly identify some of the objects, but they did a pretty great job overall. We think they’re ready to go on their own cruise!

It was a great start to the school year so join us next time for more fun and learning—-Group by Group!

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May11

Happy Mother’s Day

Posted on May 11, 2018 by jd785

Happy Mother’s Day

This week we wanted to celebrate mothers! Our book features photos some of our students with their moms. The sensory group explored boxes related to things moms might like on Mother’s Day. The fine motor groups made presents for the moms and the language group made a tasty treat every mom would love!

SENSORY GROUP

We put the letters M O M in this box of colorful rice and beans. The bright pink color was very eye catching and definitely encouraged exploration. There was also a cute picture of some animal moms and their babies to discover as the rice was pushed aside.

The science access point recognize objects as the same can be addressed here.

The students got a chance to spell MOM again, but this time in chocolate play dough using cookie cutter letters. Because we love our moms so much, there was a heart shaped one also! This play dough smelled really yummy, so we did need to watch some of our students pretty carefully 🙂

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

This box contained a variety of items associated with Mother’s Day. There were lots of flower petals, play food, and “gifts” moms might like such as a purse and jewelry. We also included a mom figure, a crinkly mylar balloon, and lots of heart shaped items.

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

Breakfast in bed is a popular thing to do for your mom! This box of coffee grounds contained some play food along with a cup and spoon for scooping fun. The students had a lot of fun with this box.

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.

The students made jewelry with colorful pasta and chenille stems. What mom wouldn’t like jewelry for a present!

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

Our pink cloud dough (we used strawberry cake mix) was popular with our students. It was a pretty color, smelled good, and was really fun to run hands through. Two different sized heart shaped spoons added to the fun.

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

The students got a chance to spell MOM again by scooping foam letters out of Sweet Pea (from Value Time bath gel) scented water.

Use senses to recognize objects is a science access point.

Bath and Body Works Sweet Pea lotion made for a light sweet scent to finish.

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

FINE MOTOR GROUP

On Tuesday the students made “love bug” book marks decorated with their finger prints for their moms!

First, the they chose which color ink they wanted to use.

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

Then they stamped colorful fingerprints all over their bookmarks.

Some of the students needed help with this part but they were all fascinated by the process!

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

The adults used markers to draw a few details and……

…………TA DA!!!!

We love our moms!

On Wednesday the students decorated self portraits for their moms!

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

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

Then they decorated their photos using a variety of markers and crayons.

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

Once they finished coloring, the students chose the color of their photo mat and glued their picture DOWN on a piece of colorful construction paper.

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

TA DA——-ready for framing!!

Happy Mother’s Day!

LANGUAGE GROUP

We made a sweet treat that we think any mom would like to have. Here is the recipe that we used: Let_s Make A Chocolate Covered Strawberry Smoothie

We started by getting out some frozen strawberries. As always, we first went around and let each student touch the strawberries.

They had to indicate whether they were COLD or HOT using communication symbols or verbalizations.

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

We had a student request to HELP put the strawberries in the blender by indicating HELP on their communication board.

We added a frozen banana next, again talking about how it felt COLD.

Next, we poured some chocolate almond milk into a measuring cup. A student had to request to PUT it in by indicating HELP.

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

When we measured out the cocoa and the honey, we talked about how we had to use a measuring spoon because it was a LITTLE amount. Students had to locate LITTLE on their communication boards.

They also located the BLENDER on their boards.

When all the ingredients were in the blender, each student took a turn pressing the wireless switch to turn on the blender. After each student took a turn, we talked about how we needed to blend it some MORE until the ingredients were smooth.

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

Finally, we counted out how many cups we needed, poured the smoothie into each cup, and topped it with some whipped cream.

Students had to request their smoothie by indicating WANT, DRINK, or EAT on their communication boards or verbally.

YUMMY!!!!!!

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

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Feb18

2018 Winter Olympics

Posted on February 18, 2018 by jd785

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.