Tag Archives: recipe

Nov17

Lets Celebrate National Sesame Street Day

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Lets Celebrate National Sesame Street Day

November 10 was National Sesame Street Day and the show’s 50th anniversary—–how cool is that!!!! Our sensory groups explored boxes dedicated to some of the shows characters. The fine motor groups made projects with circles and the language group made a tasty treat!

 

 

 

 

 

SENSORY GROUP

Abby Cadabby is cute pink character, so we used pink sand for her box. Between its eye catching color and soft texture, this box was a huge hit with the students!

 

 

 

 

 

A scoop and sifter made for fun explorations.

Science access point: track a falling object.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Oatmeal with some black bean “chocolate chips” made a perfect Cookie Monster box.

 

 

 

 

 

 

There were  3 play food cookies to find!

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

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

There were numbers to find in our box dedicated to The Count.

 

 

 

 

 

 

We put them in a box of lentils which were really fun to run fingers through!

Math access point: associate quantities with number names.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The students had fun making Grover’s face in a box of blue moon sand. Of course, there were some Picasso versions 🙂

 

 

 

 

We also included some scooping tools.

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

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Our chenille stems are just like the colorful stripes in Bert and Ernie’s shirts.

 

 

 

 

 

The students had fun wrapping the chenille stems around the toys or themselves 🙂

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

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Shaving cream was tinted Big Bird Yellow!

 

 

 

 

 

 

The students pushed the yellow shaving cream and a yellow Big Bird figure around a yellow tray—when we go with an idea, we go all the way 🙂

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

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Oscar the Grouch and Elmo bobbed along in water this week.

 

 

 

 

 

We found a cute little garbage can that made a perfect scoop!

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

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Bath and Body Works hot cocoa lotion left our students smelling like yummy chocolate chip cookies.

 

 

 

 

 

Thankfully Cookie Monster wasn’t around 🙂

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

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

FINE MOTOR GROUP

On Tuesday the students made Elmo!

First, they identified a circle and the color red.

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

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

 

 

 

 

 

Then, they painted their plates!

Science access point: recognize a change in an object.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Next, eyes, a mouth, and a nose were added.

 

 

 

 

 

 

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

 

 

 

 

 

Ta DA!

 

 

 

 

 

 

It’s Elmo!

 

 

 

 

On Wednesday we made some paper plate cookies!

First, we identified the shape of the paper plate.

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

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Then, the students chose how many chocolate chip circles they wanted to cut out using a circle punch. They could choose to cut 3, 4, or 5.

We discussed that these circles were SMALL and the paper plate was LARGE.

 

 

 

 

Math access point: associate quantities with number names.

 

 

 

 

 

The small circles were set aside while the students painted their plates.

 

 

 

 

 

 

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

 

 

 

 

 

Next, they glued their chocolate chips on to their plates.

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

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

TA—-chocolate chip—– DA!!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Hey Cookie Monster……….we’ve got the cookies!

 

 

 

 

 

LANGUAGE GROUP

We made a treat that we think Cookie Monster would really love to have.  Here’s the recipe that we used: Let’s Make A Chocolate Chip Cookie Shake

We started out by talking about how the ice cream felt COLD.  Then we PUT 6 cups of ice cream in the BLENDER.  Our students had to indicate that they wanted to HELP.

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

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Next, we had to count out 8 chocolate chip cookies and we PUT those in the BLENDER.

We then added some milk.  Our students observed that one milk carton equals one cup of milk!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

We PUT in a little bit of vanilla extract and then PUT in one cup of frozen cool whip.

Each student got to HELP TURN on the blender by pressing the wireless switch.  Our blender was super full, so this took a minute 🙂

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Once the milk shake was SMOOTH, each student had to request that they WANTED some.  If they were not given enough, they had to request MORE.

 

 

 

These were pretty delicious!

 

 

Join us again 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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Oct20

Orange and Black

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Orange and Black

It’s all about the colors of the season this week! Our sensory groups explored orange and black themed boxes. Our fine motor groups made colorful art projects and the language group made some orange and black treats—-no tricks 🙂

 

 

 

 

 

SENSORY GROUP

There were lots of things to explore and discover in this all BLACK box.

 

 

 

We included different textures such as fur and fabric, as well as things that made noise such as a squeaky rat!

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

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Our ORANGE box was also filled with a variety of objects and textures.

The flashing light toy was especially popular!

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

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Our colorful orange and black rice is always a hit and so very eye catching. There was one  letter B and two O’s to find, match, or spell out BOO!

There was also an orange and black picture to at the bottom of the box.

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

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

We put two black bats and one orange spider in this box of black kinetic sand.

The bats blended with the black sand, but the spider really stood out!

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

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The students sorted black and orange pompoms.

They really did a great job!

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

 

 

 

 

 

 

We tinted our shaving cream orange, then added some black glitter.

Fun AND colorful!

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

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Two cute ducks—-one black and one orange—floated in the water play this week.

 

There were two different sized measuring cups and a sifter scoop for scooping fun.

Math access point: recognize differences in size of objects.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Orange Mandarin scented lotion was the perfect choice for this week.

A yummy citrus scent that our students loved!

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

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

FINE MOTOR GROUP

On Tuesday we made an inkblot painting.

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

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

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

We squeezed paint on to one half of a folded pumpkin shape, then folded the unpainted half over the paint and rubbed it with our hands.

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

Then we opened it back up to see the inkblot and glued it to a black background!!!!

 

 

 

 

 

TA DA!!!

Inkblot pumpkins!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

On Wednesday we stamped with pumpkins!

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

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

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Then, we stamped UP and Down with our pumpkins. Forks made for perfect handles!

 

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

 

 

 

 

 

 

TA DA!!!

 

Orange and Black…..

It’s pumpkin time!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

LANGUAGE GROUP

We made an orange and black treat this week for our language group.  Here’s the recipe that we used: Let’s Make An Edible Pumpkin Patch

We started out by PUTTING chocolate pudding mix into the BOWL.  The student who wanted to HELP was given the package of pudding mix.

Staff waited for her to request HELP with opening the package.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Next, each student felt the milk.  They indicated whether it felt HOT or COLD.  We got some smiles when we put it up to some of the students’ faces.

We had 2 students HELP measure out 2 cups of milk.  If there wasn’t enough milk poured into the measuring cup, students would have to indicate MORE.

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

 

 

 

 

 

 

Each student got to HELP with the mixer.  We observed it changing from a liquid to a solid.

Science access point: identify the basic properties of solids and liquids.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Next, we PUT 10 Oreos in a bag.  Each student got a chance to crush the cookies.

 

This was lots of fun for our kiddos 🙂

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

 

 

 

 

 

 

Each student had to request some pudding.  They each received one spoonful and were asked if they wanted MORE or if they were ALL DONE.

We added some of the crushed Oreos to the top, again starting with one spoonful and having them indicate MORE or DONE.

Finally, each student got 3 candy pumpkins to PUT on the top.  They each counted out 3 and put them in their cup (surprisingly not in their mouths).

Math access point: associate quantities with number names.

 

 

 

 

 

A delicious edible pumpkin patch!

 

YUM!!!!!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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

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

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!

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

Aug30

We Had A Great Summer

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We Had A Great Summer

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

 

 

 

 

 

 

SENSORY GROUP

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

 

 

 

Math access point: associate quantities with number names.

 

 

 

 

 

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

 

 

 

 

The rocket was a BIG hit!

Science access point: recognize a space related object.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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

 

 

 

 

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

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

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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

 

 

 

 

This colorful rice was very eye catching!

Science access point: recognize objects as the same.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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

 

 

 

 

 

Fish molds added to the fun for our students.

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

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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

 

 

 

 

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

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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

 

 

 

 

 

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

Science access point: match living things with their habitats.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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

 

 

This scent was a hit!

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

 

 

 

 

 

FINE MOTOR GROUP

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

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

 

 

 

 

Math access point: recognize objects with two dimensional shapes.

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

 

 

 

 

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

 

 

 

 

 

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

 

 

 

 

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

 

 

 

 

Some of the students used switch operated scissors.

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

 

 

 

 

 

 

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

 

 

 

 

 

TA DA!!

Summer camping fun!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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

First, the identified a square.

Math access point: recognize objects with two dimensional shapes.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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

 

 

 

 

 

Math access point: recognize the sides of a square.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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

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

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

TA DA!!!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Tropical Island fun!

We had a great summer!!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

LANGUAGE GROUP

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

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

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

 

 

 

 

 

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

 

 

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

 

 

 

 

 

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

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

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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

 

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

 

 

 

 

 

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

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

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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

Pretty good first treat of the year!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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

 

 

 

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

 

Apr6

Where We Go On CBI

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Where We Go On CBI

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

 

 

 

 

SENSORY GROUP

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

 

 

 

 

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

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

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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

 

 

 

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

Math access point: recognize differences in size of objects.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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

 

 

 

 

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

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

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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

 

 

 

 

 

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

Science access point: recognize coins as money.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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

 

 

 

 

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

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

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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

 

 

 

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

Science access point: recognize a change in an object.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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

 

 

 

 

Messy hands sometimes made some very colorful rinsing water!

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

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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

 

 

 

 

It was definitely a hit!

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

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

FINE MOTOR GROUP

On Wednesday the students made a CBI map.

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

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

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

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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

 

 

 

 

 

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

 

 

 

 

 

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

Science access point: recognize a change in an object.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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

 

 

 

 

 

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

 

 

 

 

 

 

TA DA!!!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

We are ready……..

……..let’s go on CBI.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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

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

Math access point: associate quantities of number names.

 

 

 

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

 

 

 

 

 

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

 

 

 

 

 

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

 

 

 

 

 

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

The corn syrup will dry to a glassy finish.

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

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

TA DA!!!

 

 

 

 

 

 

Chicken nuggets—-YUMMY!!!

 

 

 

 

 

 

LANGUAGE GROUP

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

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

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

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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

 

 

 

 

 

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

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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

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

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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

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

 

 

These were very tasty!  A good treat for all 🙂

 

 

 

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

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

Mar17

Machines

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Machines

This goes along with the Unique Curriculum unit some of our students are learning about this month. The sensory group explored boxes related to different machines. The fine motor groups made machine themed art projects and the language group used machines to make a yummy snack.

 

 

 

 

 

SENSORY GROUP

School buses are machines that most of our students are familiar with. There were 2 different buses to find in the black beans of this box.

 

 

 

 

 

There was a small yellow school bus and a larger orange one—-which left us wondering where they drive orange buses!

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

 

 

 

 

 

Everybody loves trains! A train engine cookie cutter was included with blue moon sand so the students could stamp as many trains as they wanted!

 

 

 

 

Of course, they also loved the feel of the sand itself. Moon sand is so soft to the touch.

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

 

 

 

 

Construction vehicles are popular machines around here! There were 3 different toy construction vehicles to rearrange some coffee grounds and dried beans.

 

 

 

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

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

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

A much smaller machine—-a pencil sharpener inspired this box! The students had fun “writing” in sawdust with a big giant pencil!

 

 

 

 

There were also two different sized scoops included to add to the fun.

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

 

 

 

 

 

Battery operated fans provided wind power…..

 

 

 

 

 

and lots of giggles 🙂

Science access point: indicate awareness of air moving.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

A toy airplane flew around fluffy shaving cream clouds.

 

 

 

 

 

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

 

 

 

 

 

Hands were rinsed under a spinning water wheel.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Our water wheel is always a hit with the students.

Science access point: recognize one way people use water.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

We added a twist to our scent this week. Special scratch and sniff cards that had oil and gasoline scents were presented first.

 

 

 

We all agreed we did not like these scents!

We then switched to pumpkin pie paradise from Bath and Works. Pumpkin pies are something you might use a machine to make 🙂

 

 

 

 

And much yummier smelling!

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

 

 

 

 

 

FINE MOTOR GROUP

On Wednesday we made some big trucks!

First, the students identified the shapes of our art materials.

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

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Then, the students identified which rectangle was BIG and which was LITTLE.

Math access point: recognize differences in size of objects.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The rectangles were glued down on a piece of paper starting with the LITTLE one, then gluing the BIG one beside it.

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

 

 

 

 

 

Next, we counted out 3 bottle cap “wheels” and glued them to the bottom of the truck.

 

 

 

 

Math access point: associate quantities with number names.

 

 

 

 

 

TA DA!!!!

 

 

 

 

 

 

We love machines!

Keep on trucking!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

On Thursday the students made a clothes dryers using this template:dryer template

First, they identified the shapes of our materials.

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

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

We gave the students a circular piece of paper with clothes drawn on it and asked them to color the clothing with different colors.

 

 

 

 

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

 

 

 

 

 

They glued their clothes circle on to a paper plate and then glued the paper plate and dryer clothes on to a large piece of paper.

 

 

 

 

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

 

 

 

 

 

TA DA!

 

 

 

 

 

 

We love machines—–

they help make our chores easier!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

LANGUAGE GROUP

We used 2 different compound machines today when we made our recipe!  Here is the recipe we used: Let’s Make Dirt Cups

We started by talking about what we were going to MAKE.  One of our students was hesitant about this because of the name of the recipe, so we talked about the word edible again and students located EAT on their boards.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

First, we PUT instant chocolate pudding mix into a BOWL.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

We had to measure out 2 cups of milk.  Each student felt the bottle of milk and indicated that it was COLD.

 

 

 

 

 

We had a pint of milk, so we measured out 1 cup and then had to measure out 1 MORE.  We talked about how there are 2 cups in a pint.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

We used our first compound machine, the mixer, to mix up the pudding.  Each student got to HELP press the wireless switch to TURN on the mixer.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

We got the pudding ready by mixing Cool Whip into it. The students helped stir the mixture and watched it change from a mix of colors to just one color.

 

 

 

 

 

We set the pudding aside and got out our 2nd compound machine, a food processor.  We PUT 5 Oreos into the food processor and TURNED it on.

One of our students got to HELP PUT the Oreo “dirt” on the tops of each treat.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Each student got a small amount of the pudding mix. They had to request MORE.

 

 

 

 

 

This dirt is yummy!

 

 

 

We off for the next week for spring break but we will back after that with more fun and learning—–Group by Group!

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Feb3

Australia

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Australia

G’day mate! January 26 is Australia Day so this week we learned about that “down under” country! The sensory groups explored boxes related to facts about the country. The fine motor groups crafted symbols of the country and the language group made a favorite Australian dessert—-pavlova!

 

 

 

 

 

SENSORY GROUP

Since they are the national colors of Australia, we used yellow and green paper shred as the base of this box. We added some plush and plastic animals, such as the koala, kangaroo, and crocodile.

 

 

There was also some fake sheep wool and pictures of famous Australians. We even included a voice output device with a didgeridoo recorded on it.

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

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Our green and yellow rice contained some black bean “coal”. We learned that Australia is the world’s largest producer of coal!

 

 

 

There were upper and lower case letter A’s to find in the rice, as well as a map of the country at the bottom of the box.

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

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Ayers Rock is called Uluru by aboriginal Australians. Our red mood sand resembled the color of the world’s largest monolith.

 

 

 

 

There were 5 snakes and a 1 lizard that might be found there.

Math access point: associate quantities with number names.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The world’s larges coral reef is located in Australia. Our Great Barrier Reef umbrella was a hit with the students. They also liked the plush “great white shark” puppet!

 

 

 

 

Science access point: match living things with their habitats.

 

 

 

 

Kinetic sand made a perfect “Bondi Beach”!

 

 

 

 

 

 

The students loved watching the sand drop through their fingers or using the sea life molds to stamp in it.

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

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Students mixed cornstarch and shaving cream to make “meringue” pavlovas!

 

 

 

 

 

It was messy, but the students really loved the soft cool texture!

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

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Lake Hillier is a PINK lake—-how cool is that!! This cool pink bowl was a perfect stand in for the lake but since it was a little “tippy”, we put it inside a regular basin to avoid any accidental or not so accidental spills 🙂

 

 

There were some pool noodle pieces and a scoop to add to the fun.

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

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Bath and Body Works eucalyptus scent was a perfect scent for out little koalas this week!

 

 

 

 

 

The strong scent certainly got everyones attention!

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

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

FINE MOTOR GROUP

On Wednesday the students made kangaroo puppets using this template: kangaroo

First, they identified the color BROWN from an array of 3 colors. All of the students identified the correct color—-our students rock!!!

 

 

 

 

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

 

 

 

 

Next, the students used brown crayons to color their kangaroos.

 

 

 

 

 

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

 

 

 

 

Then, we added 2 googlie eyes.

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

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

TA DA!!!!!

 

 

 

 

 

 

The kangaroo is a symbol of Australia!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

On Thursday the students made a didgeridoo out of a paper towel tube.

First, the students chose their paper and identified the color.

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

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Next, they drew lines and shapes using markers.

 

 

 

 

 

It was fun seeing the different patterns each student chose!

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

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Then, they cut their paper into strips using paper cutters or switch operated scissors.

 

 

 

 

 

 

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

 

 

 

 

 

The students then shared their strips with each other and began wrapping them around their

tubes. We fastened them down with tape, but glue would work too.

Science access point: share objects with a partner.

 

 

 

 

 

 

TA DA!!!

 

 

 

 

 

 

Look at our fabulous didgeridoos!

These were a hit 🙂

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

LANGUAGE GROUP

We made a tasty popular Australian dessert today–pavlova cake.  Well, we made our own rendition of it.  Here is a link to the recipe: lets make mini pavlova cakes

 

First, we PUT 1 cup of whipping cream into a BOWL.  We compared a cup with a tablespoon.  Our students were asked to indicate the BIGGER one.

Math access point: recognize differences in size of objects.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Once the cream was in the bowl, we observed that it was a liquid.  The students were told to watch and see if it became DIFFERENT after it was mixed.  Each student took TURNS pressing the switch to activate the mixer.

 

 

 

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

 

 

 

 

 

We observed that the liquid became a solid.  Next, we added a tsp of vanilla.  We compared a teaspoon with a tablespoon and asked our students to identify the SMALLER one.

Math access point: recognize differences in size of objects.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Next, we PUT a tbsp of confectioners’ sugar into the bowl.  Each student got to taste some of the sugar.  They had to indicate whether it tasted SWEET or SOUR.

 

 

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

 

 

 

 

Once that was all mixed up we started PUTTING together our pavlova.  On the recipe, we saw that the cake was put together like a math equation.  First, each student got a meringue cookie.  Next, we added just a little bit of the whipped cream.  Each student had to say if they WANTED MORE.

 

 

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

 

 

 

 

Finally, we added some strawberries.  Only one piece of strawberry was given to each student and they had to request MORE if they wanted more.

It turned out to be a really pretty dessert!

 

 

 

 

We sure learned a lot about Australia this week! Join us next time for more fun and learning—-Group by Group!

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Jan13

The 1950’s

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The 1950’s

To start the new year, we decided to take a look back——–WAY back, all the way to the 1950’s! The sensory groups explored boxes related to different facts from the decade. The fine motor groups made some cool art projects and the language group made a 1950’s inspired recipe.

 

 

 

 

 

 

SENSORY GROUP

We put the numbers 1 9 5 0 in this rice box. In addition to running their fingers through the rice, the students had fun scooping it up and adding it to a small metal cup.

 

 

 

 

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

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Our outer space black beans and rice contained our nod to NASA which was started in 1958.

There was a cool rocket toy that had a spinning astronaut and flashing lights when the button was pushed.

 

 

 

Science access point: distinguish between objects in motion (kinetic energy) and at rest.

 

 

 

 

 

Disney Land and the Mickey Mouse Club tv show both had their start in 1955.

There were lots of fun things to find in this box, including Disney character figures, colorful beads, and a VOD that had the Mickey Mouse song recorded on it.

 

Social studies access point: recognize a character in a story that is not real.

 

 

 

 

 

Elvis had a hit with the song Heartbreak Hotel in 1956.

 

 

 

 

 

 

The students made both BIG and LITTLE hearts in red moon sand.

Math access point: recognize the larger of two objects.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

TV dinners were first introduced in 1953. Since they had foil trays and covers, we thought it would be fun to have a box with a foil. This space blanket was the perfect choice.

 

 

 

 

It was fun to throw up in the air and made a fun crackling noise when crunched—–it was a huge hit with the students!

 

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

 

 

 

 

 

A couple more photos—–this was a really fun experience for the students!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Sir Edmund Hilary and Tenzing Norgay made it to the top of Mount Everest in 1953.

 

 

 

 

 

The students swirled snowy shaving foam around a laminated mountain top for messy play this week.

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

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

20000 League Under the Sea was a movie released in 1954.

 

 

 

 

 

Our water play contained a little submarine and a variety of sea animals—-including a giant squid!

Science access point: match living things with their habitats.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Hawaii became the 50th state in 1959! This inspired us to use Bath and Body Works pineapple as our scent this week.

 

 

 

 

The sweet aroma was a big hit with the students.

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

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

FINE MOTOR GROUP

On Wednesday the students made Mount Everest models and then put themselves on the mountain using this template: mountain climber template

First, the students identified the shape of their poster board mountain. They also identified the shape of a tissue box that would be used for the project.

 

 

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

 

 

 

 

Then they added “snow” (a mixture of glue and shaving cream) to their triangle.

 

 

 

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

 

 

 

 

Next, they put themselves on to the mountain. Since there was glue in our snow mixture, we didn’t need extra glue!

The mountain was hot glued (by an adult) on to the tissue box to help it stand up and…..

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

TA DA from the top of the world!!!

 

 

 

 

 

 

We climbed Mount Everest!!!!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

On Thursday the students gave themselves a new look using this: elvis hair template

First, the students identified the color of the yarn we were going to use for the project.

 

 

 

 

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

 

 

 

 

Then, using regular, adapted, or switch operated scissors, the students snipped pieces of yarn.

 

 

 

 

 

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

 

 

 

 

 

Glue spreaders were used to spread glue around the black poster board hair template and applied their pieces of yarn.

 

 

 

 

 

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

 

 

 

 

TA—-Elvis—- DA!!!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Don’t tread on our blue suede shoes!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

LANGUAGE GROUP

We made a yummy treat that was popular in the ’50s: jello salad!  Here is the recipe that we used: let_s make blueberry vanilla jello salad

(The words that are capitalized are the targeted words on the communication boards)

We started by talking about how we were going to MAKE a jello salad, noting that this type of salad is DIFFERENT from the salad that we usually eat.

First, we PUT a box of vanilla instant pudding mix into a BOWL.  One of our students indicated they WANTed to HELP by raising their hand and indicating HELP.

 

 

 

 

 

Next, we PUT vanilla yogurt into the BOWL.  We had 2 students HELP with this since the container was big.  We had to STIR the ingredients together.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

After that, we PUT cool whip in and STIRRED that together as well.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Finally, we added some blueberries and STIRRED those in, first talking about how the bag of frozen blueberries felt COLD.

 

 

 

 

We LOOKed at the ingredients and saw that the color was becoming DIFFERENT, going from white to a purple color.

 

 

 

 

Each student had to request some of the jello salad by indicating WANT.  They were only given a small amount, so they had to request MORE if they wanted more than what they got.  A spoon was not given to them either, which prompted them to request a SPOON as well.

 

 

 

We’re thinking these kiddos really LIKED their ’50s treat!  What do you think?  🙂

 

 

 

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

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Oct7

Italy

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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!