Tag Archives: sensory box

Feb11

The Super Bowl

Posted on February 11, 2018 by jd785

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

SENSORY GROUP

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

Associate quantities with number names is a math access point.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

FINE MOTOR GROUP

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

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

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

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

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

Then they glued their players DOWN onto the field.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

TA DA!

Put me in coach!

LANGUAGE GROUP

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

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

Next, we added some chicken to the bowl.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

We’re ready to watch the game—–again!

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

Feb4

Ancient Myths and Legends

Posted on February 4, 2018 by jd785

Ancient Myths and Legends

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

SENSORY GROUP

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

We also included a measuring cup for scooping fun.

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

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

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

FINE MOTOR SKILLS

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Ta DA!

We are spreading the love!

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

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

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

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

Associate quantities with number names is a math access point.

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

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

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

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

Ta—- toga—- DA!

Our students are legendary!

LANGUAGE GROUP

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

YUM!!!!

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

Jan28

Taiwan

Posted on January 28, 2018 by jd785

Taiwan

We were lucky enough to be visited by an acrobatic school group from Taiwan. They were absolutely amazing and made us want to find out more about their country. Our sensory groups explored boxes related to facts about the country. The fine motor groups decorated dragons to use in dragon boat races hosted by the language group.

SENSORY GROUP

Red, white, and blue are the colors found in the Taiwanese flag so we had our students sort pompoms in those colors. We included a laminated flag for reference.

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

The math access point recognize three-dimensional, such as balls (spheres), can also be addressed here.

We used a bird shaped cookie cutter in blue moon sand to represent the Blue Magpie which is the national bird of Taiwan.

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

Tea is a popular drink in Taiwan. Our box of tea contained the letters T-E-A for our students to find as well as a map at the bottom of the box. There were also 2 different sized spoons which made for lots of scooping fun.

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

The Formosan Black Bear is the national animal of Taiwan. The students really liked the feel of the black bear “fur” and cuddling with the cute plush black bear cub.

Recognize objects related to science by name, such as ice, animal, and plant, is a science access point.

Ang Li, who is from Taiwan, directed the movie The Hulk. Our green kinetic sand was definitely the right pick for this box. Since we didn’t have a Hulk action figure on hand, we made our own laminated one and the students seemed pretty happy with what we came up with.

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

We practiced making the letter T for Taiwan and had lots of fun scribbling in the shaving cream this week.

The science access point recognize the change in the motion of an object can be addressed here.

Taiwan is made up of lots of islands so fishing is an important part of the economy. We put different sized scoops and two cute little squirting fish in the water play this week.

This turned out to be a really fun activity and the students had a blast.

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

Plum blossoms are a symbol of Taiwan so we used Victoria’s Secret plum scented bath gel and lotion this week. The light floral scent was really popular with the students.

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

FINE MOTOR GROUP

Joy drew these dragons on poster board and gave each of the classes one to decorate. Two of our classes decorated theirs during Fine Motor group time.

On Tuesday the students decorated their dragon in their team color—-PURPLE.

First the students identified the color purple using communication symbols.

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

Then we stamped UP and DOWN with a bubble wrapped stamper. Most of the students needed a little assistance with this but they were all very engaged in the activity!

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

We sprinkled on some confetti for a little added sparkle.

Recognize a change in an object is a science access point that can be addressed here.

TA DA!!

The Purple Dragons are ready to rumble!

On Wednesday the Pink team decorated their dragons.

First, we identified the color of our markers using communication symbols.

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

We also identified the number 3 because each student was asked to draw 3 lines on the dragon.

Associate quantities with number names is a math access point.

A variety of PINK markers were used for this activity and the students were encouraged to draw straight lines but, of course, any effort was applauded 🙂

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.

We sang our glitter song while adding some PINK glitter.

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

We used both regular and adaptive scissors to cut some Pink paper streamers and attached them to the dragon.

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

TA DA!

Hear those Pink Dragons ROAR!!!

LANGUAGE GROUP

We had LOTS of fun in the language group this week. We learned that each year, Taiwan has a big Dragon Boat race so we thought it’d be fun to have our OWN dragon race. Each elementary classroom chose their team color.

Before we began racing, we talked to the students about going FAST in the race.

Recognize a motion as FAST or SLOW is a science access point.

Everyone had to wait until they saw the signal to GO (we used the Pixon communication symbol for “go”)

…………..and they were off.

All the students and teachers ran down until they got to the red ribbon finish line.

We have some really fast teachers and students!

The competition was fierce…..

…..and there were some close finishes!

We talked about who was the fastest and won the race. The top 2 fastest classes won trophies and the other classes each won medals.

The pictures can’t begin to capture all of the fun we had at the race lol! We might have to make this an annual event as well 🙂

Join us again next week for more fun and learning

Group by Group!

Jan21

Our 5 Senses

Posted on January 21, 2018 by jd785

Our 5 Senses

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

SENSORY GROUP

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

Recognize sources of light is a science access point.

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

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

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

Recognize objects that create sounds is a science access point.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

FINE MOTOR GROUP

On Tuesday the students made a multi-sensory painting.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Track a falling object is a science access point.

TA DA!!!!!!!!!

We made some sensory art!!!

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

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

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

Associate quantities with number names is a math access point.

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

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

TA DA!!!!!!

This is our nervous system!!!!!

LANGUAGE GROUP

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

YUM!!!!!

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

Jan14

Scotland

Posted on January 14, 2018 by jd785

Scotland

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

SENSORY GROUP

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

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

The vibrating tube was a HUGE hit with the students!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Lots to explore here!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Recognize one or more external body parts.

FINE MOTOR GROUP

On Tuesday, our students made the Scottish flag.

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

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

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

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

Associate quantities with number names is a math access point.

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

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

TA DA!!!!!!!!

We love Scotland!

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

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

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

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

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

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

Track falling objects is a science access point.

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

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

TA DA!!!!

We just spotted some Unicorns!

LANGUAGE GROUP

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

This taste test received a unanimous thumbs up 🙂

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

The consensus was a positive one!

Associate quantities with number names is a math access point.

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

Jan7

New Years

Posted on January 7, 2018 by jd785

New Years

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

SENSORY GROUP

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

Associate quantities with number names is a math access point.

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

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

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

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

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

Track objects in motion is a science access point.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

FINE MOTOR GROUP

We made some fireworks pictures this week!

First, we identified our paint color using communication symbols.

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

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

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

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

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

TA——– ooh aah——– Da!

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

LANGUAGE GROUP

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

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

Associate quantities with number name is a math access point.

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

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

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

Associate quantities with number names is a science access point.

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

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

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

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

Happy New Year from Group by Group!

Nov5

Day of the Dead

Posted on November 5, 2017 by jd785

Day of the Dead

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

SENSORY GROUP

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Some of the students preferred the Wikki Stix…….

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

Recognize a source of light is a science access point.

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

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

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

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

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

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

FINE MOTOR GROUP

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

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

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

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

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

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

Ta Da!!!!!

Check out our sugar skulls!

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

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

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

Then the students painted their skulls with glue.

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

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

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

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

Associate quantities with number names is a math access point.

Ta DA!!!!!!

Such colorful calaveras!

LANGUAGE GROUP

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Pretty tasty too!

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

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

Oct29

Monsters in Movies

Posted on October 29, 2017 by jd785

Monsters in Movies

We had so much fun with this unit! Our book is awesome and the students had a great time dressing up as different characters so be sure to check it out. Our sensory groups explored boxes related to different movie monsters. The fine motor groups made some monster art projects and the language group conducted some monster experiments!

SENSORY GROUP

To set the mood, we turned off the lights and brought out our Hotel Transylvania umbrella. It had orange lights, ghostly garland, and some little bats. The students loved it!

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

We filled this “monster” box of black and red paper shred with figures, finger puppets, a plush Scooby Doo, and a great BIG squeaky rat! The students rocked out to The Monster Mash recorded on a voice output device. Lots of things to look at, touch, listen to, and explore!

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

For our Frankenstein box we used green Floam and then added Mr. Potato Head pieces and some laminated props we made. The students came up with some monstrously cool creations!

Recognize one or more external body parts is a science access point that can be addressed here.

Bubber is a great molding substance, perfect for making Scooby snacks! The students could use the bone shaped cookie cutter or just mold the Bubber into whatever shapes they liked.

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

The character Mal, from The Descendants, has purple hair. We decided our purple kinetic sand would be PERFECT for this box. We included a heart shaped scoop that could be used for a mold and a little rake. Whether pushing and pulling to make it move or just watching it drip back down into the box—–this stuff is always a favorite!Recognize that pushing and pulling an object makes it move is a science access point.

The students used pieces cut from black craft foam to turn shaving foam into ghosts. Messy fun as usual.

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

Our caribbean pirate lagoon contained a shipwreck and a couple of ducky pirates. There were also 2 different size scoops for added fun.

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

We thought that Bath and BodyWorks twilight woods scent would be the perfect complement to our unit this week. They really loved the scent!

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

FINE MOTOR GROUP

On Tuesday the students made some monster masks using this: monster mask

We asked the students to choose which marker they wanted to use first. We took a cue from the colors of Sully from Monsters Inc. and used the colors BLUE and PURPLE.

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

Some of our students used the writer we made using a switch operated vibrating toy, others decorated their masks old school—-with markers 🙂

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

TA DA!

Such cute little monsters!

On Wednesday we made some paper bag mummies! We found the idea on Pinterest.

First the students identified the color of our marker using communication symbols.

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

We asked the students to use their black markers to draw ACROSS lines on the bag. Then they glued a strip of torn black paper at the TOP of the bag.

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

Next we squeezed 2 glue dots on the black piece of paper and asked the students to put a googlie eye on each dot.

Associate quantities with number names is a math access point. Match one object to a designated space to show one-to-one correspondence is also a math access point.

Ta DA!!!

It’s a Mummy Monster Mash!

LANGUAGE GROUP

This week, instead of making yummy treats, we put together some pretty awesome monster experiments. Here are the ones that we used with the directions: Let_s Do Monster Experiments!

Since the pumpkin was cut beforehand, we had the innards of the pumpkin in a bag. We passed it around so our students could feel what the insides of pumpkins are like. Since it had been in the fridge it also felt COLD.

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

We started out by making an Erupting Pumpkin. First, we put some baking soda in a small bowl.

Next, we added some dish soap to the bowl.

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

Our students voted between 2 different colors of food coloring. The choice was a tie, so Grandma had to break it by voting for PINK. We added the food coloring and some glitter.

Compare quantities to 3 using language, such as more, less, or the same, is math access point. Communicate preference for familiar objects or actions is a language access point.

We put the bowl in a carved out pumpkin (thank you to Cara’s son and daughter for creating the faces for the pumpkin). We poured some vinegar in it and watched it erupt!

WAY COOL!!!!!

For our next experiment, we made some Monster Slime.

We started by putting 1/2 cup of glue in a bowl. Then we added 1/2 cup of water to the glue.

We put in some slimy green food coloring and, of course, some glitter! We made sure to stir it up really well. We talked about how it was thin and watery.

Solve simple problems involving joining small quantities of objects is a math access point

Then we added the liquid starch. When we began stirring it around, it almost instantly started firming up. We transferred it to a plate so the students could see how it changed to a solid.

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

We added some googly eyes and voila! Monster slime!

There were mixed reactions about it all around 🙂

Last, we made an Expanding Ghost.

We put some vinegar into an empty water bottle. Then we put some baking soda into a balloon that had a ghost face on it.

Again, the math access point recognize when an object is added to a situation, is addressed.

We secured the balloon over the top of the bottle and then turned the balloon over so that the baking soda fell into the bottle.

WOW!! The balloon got bigger as the reaction happened in the bottle. Our students also got to feel the bottle which was COLD from the reaction.

So much spooky fun!

We had a MONSTER good time this week! Join us again next time for more fun and learning——-Group by Group!

Oct22

Fall Festival

Posted on October 22, 2017 by jd785

Fall Festival

It is that time of year when the leaves start changing color and the days are cooler—-everywhere else but here lol. Despite the fact that it still feels like summer, our school had a fabulous fall festival and we are using it as our theme this week. The sensory groups explored lots colorful boxes. The fine motor groups made some leafy crafts and the language group led a costume parade inviting all their elementary friends to a mini fall festival.

SENSORY GROUP

We filled this box with items associated with fall and things you might see at a fall festival such as silk fall leaves, pumpkins, play food, and scarecrows. We even included a little tractor to pull a hay ride!

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

There was a chili cook-off at our festival and since chili usually contains beans, we brought out our dried mixed beans for this box.

We added some Bingo Game numbers for the students to find.

Associate quantities with number names is a math access point.

This orange rice with black beans was also a perfect box for this unit. The students searched for letter F’s and there was a colorful fall picture to find at the bottom of the box.

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

Instead of 1 color of play dough, this week we had 2! The students had fun using a leaf shaped cookie cutter to cut out yellow and red leaves. When mixed together we even get a third color—-orange!

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

This fall umbrella is one of our favorites. The yellow umbrella with the colorful craft foam and silk leaves was very eye catching and a big hit with the students. To add to the fun we included some eye-catching bubbles—-just like the bubbles we had at our festival!

Track objects in motion is a science access point.

There are always lots of yummy treats to be had at a fall festival. To represent all the yumminess, we made some chocolate cloud dough. Fun for molding or scooping, the students had a blast!

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

The students used a sieve to scoop up craft foam leaves or a little orange dish scrubber floating in the water.

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

Bath and BodyWorks made the perfect scent for this week—–pumpkin pie paradise! A yummy scent that left our students smelling delicious 🙂

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

FINE MOTOR GROUP

On Tuesday we made a fall collage.

First, we identified the color of our fall leaves using communication symbols.

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

Then we made some branches and twigs using brown markers. Some of the students used one of our switch operated writers we made using a switch toy and some velcro.

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

After they finished drawing, the students glued some leaves onto their branches. They also glued on a little scarecrow that they colored earlier in the day.

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

TA DA!

We are having some fall fun!

On Wednesday we made a tree with colorful fall leaves using this:tree template

The students identified the color of the leaves and the shape of our paper using communication symbols.

Match objects by one observable property such, such as color, is a science access point. Recognize objects with two-dimensional shapes, such as circle or square, is a math access point.

We used a crayon resist technique by painting watered down orange paint over brown crayon.

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

Then the students placed a paper towel on top to soak up the extra paint.

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

Next, they glued some colorful silk leaves on to their trees.

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

TaDa!

Happy Fall Ya’ll!

LANGUAGE GROUP

This week our students led their friends on a costume parade around the elementary building to the multi-use room we had set up for a fall festival.

First everyone had to pick our their costumes. Ms. Robin’s class decided on a pirates theme!

Adjust body movement or nonverbal expression with prompting as necessary to communicate wants and needs, is a language access point.

The students were pretty pleased with their selections and we think they looked pretty grrrrrreat!

Ahoy mateys!

The students set sail, inviting all their friends to join the fun!!

Other classes dressed up too—–we had some dwarves, good witches, and……..

……….a pack of dalmatians!

We recently got this really cool wheelchair tunnel which we brought out for the first time! To give it a kind of “fun house” feel, we attached a rope light to the top—–very eye catching to our students.

We talked about going IN the tunnel and coming OUT of the tunnel.

This was a hit!!!

It wouldn’t be a fall festival without some yummy treats!

To tell us what they wanted, our students used communication symbols. They formed sentences by indicating “I want ___ please” . There was a communication strip at each different food or drink so that they could request what they wanted. Adults helped, as needed, pointing to the symbols to model the use of them or providing hand over had help for those who need a bit more assistance.

The photo booth was a hit!

Our little pirates sure put on a fabulous fall festival!

It was a wonderful time to socialize and practice our communication skills! The costumes were a major perk 🙂

We had such a fun week! Join us next time for more fun and learning——Group by Group!

Oct15

Colombia

Posted on October 15, 2017 by jd785

Colombia

Hola—-we learned about the country of Colombia this week, thanks to Ms. Maria who is from Colombia and traveled there this past summer! Our sensory groups explored boxes related to facts about Colombia. The fine motor groups practiced their cutting skills while making Colombian symbols and the language group prepared a tasty Colombian treat!

SENSORY GROUP

Colombia has made different regions including a rainforest. We made our own little rainforest with vines, flowers, fruit, and a variety of animals you might find there. The fluffy plush sloth and big orange frog were big hits.

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

The Andes run through Colombia and some of the summits are permanently snow-capped. The students had lots of fun digging and making snow balls in this box of Insta Snow. This stuff feels a lot like real snow—-but not quite as cold!

Use senses to recognize objects is a science access point.

Colombia is world famous for its coffee! There was a measuring spoon for scooping and letter C’s to find hidden in some very aromatic coffee beans.

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

Colombia is also famous for the emeralds that are mined there. We thought our sparkly emerald green kinetic sand would be a good representation of those precious gems and we added a rolling play dough toy that left some cool “gem like” impressions in the sand.

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

Colombia has some beautiful beaches—-it borders both the Pacific and Atlantic oceans! In this sand filled box there were shells and a shovel. There was also a picture of a jaguar to find at the bottom of the box.

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

There are active volcanos in Colombia! For our messy play we made our own volcanos using shaving cream and food coloring. The students were pretty fascinated watching the changing colors as the red and yellow colors combined to make the lava on our laminated volcano.

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

So, a lot smaller than the Pacific, our little ocean contains a number of fish to catch. To add to the fun, the fish could squirt water when squeezed.

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

Bananas are a top Colombian export so we used that as our scent this week. The water was scented with Minions bath gel we got at Walmart. We purchased the lotion a few years ago at World Market but unfortunately they don’t carry it anymore 🙁 Banana is a really strong scent which the students loved!

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

FINE MOTOR GROUP

On Tuesday we made some Andean condors which are a symbol of Colombia. We used this template: Andean condor

First, we discussed the shape of our background paper using communication symbols.

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

The students glued the condor’s body DOWN on to the background paper—-making sure to “pat pat pat” to make it stick.

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

Then the students used adaptive scissors to snip some wing feathers. We used either table top or switch operated scissors, depending on the students skill level.

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

The wing was glued on to the top of the body—–we wanted it to be able to flap a little.

We also squeezed out a dot of glue and added a cool looking googlie eye.

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

TA DA!

The Andean Condor is a symbol of Columbia!

On Wednesday we made a Colombian flag.

First we discussed the color of our background paper and identified it using communication symbols.

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

Then the students used a paper cutter or switch to cut a strip of red paper and a strip of blue paper.

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

We glued the red strip at the bottom of the yellow paper and then glued the blue strip above the red strip. Some of the students preferred to glue the blue strip on first and then put down the red strip—–either way worked 🙂

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

Ta DA!

We love Colombia!

LANGUAGE GROUP

We made a pretty tasty frozen drink this week that is made in Colombia: Let_s Make Limonada de Coco!, also known as Coconut Limeade.

We started out by measuring out the cream of coconut and putting it in the blender.

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

Next, we had to add some ice. Each of our students felt the bag of ice. We talked about how it felt COLD.

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

Since we needed 5 cups and our measuring cup only holds 2 cups, our students had to indicate that we needed MORE.

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

Then, we needed to add some lime juice. Just like the lemon juice we used a couple of weeks ago, we had each of our students taste a little bit. We talked about how it tasted SOUR.