tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-17910724497862481512024-03-05T14:12:02.704-05:00sestrenkimamalyahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10817211658840099763noreply@blogger.comBlogger76125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1791072449786248151.post-90711633194638131902013-03-19T17:59:00.002-04:002013-03-19T17:59:34.513-04:00DIY: Math facts dice gameA very simple dice game to practice basic [addition or multiplication] facts. It is more fun than flash cards!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjU8QsIO7vkQx5leprqIBH5QsXF5h-hakvA1zD7mMwlG0ctXJF3LoRxMjx0j18aXnjMj795FYoAQRjUPcNrh3G-592P0C_6fPnYP7Eg1NFg36hKe3gPQgVbRHir0AwB_S91t93uwVdT-wE/s1600/P3190298.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="227" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjU8QsIO7vkQx5leprqIBH5QsXF5h-hakvA1zD7mMwlG0ctXJF3LoRxMjx0j18aXnjMj795FYoAQRjUPcNrh3G-592P0C_6fPnYP7Eg1NFg36hKe3gPQgVbRHir0AwB_S91t93uwVdT-wE/s320/P3190298.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
All you need is two <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Chessex-Special-Dice-White-Opaque/dp/B001S70A86" target="_blank">blank 12-sided dice</a>. On each one write numbers from 0 to 11.<br />
If you want to add more action - add another die. I used a regular 6 sided die and wrote (+), (-), (x).<br />
<br />
When you roll all three dice you get two numbers and an action. Solve the equation. Note that for subtraction, you always subtract the smaller number from the bigger one.mamalyahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10817211658840099763noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1791072449786248151.post-74302947932832439762013-03-18T17:51:00.001-04:002013-03-18T17:52:39.342-04:00World Travelers ClubWe started the Club of a sort for small kids (5-8yo) recently. It is slightly more than a themed playdate.<br />
Here's how the last one went. It was about Russia and Maslenitsa - Russian end of winter holiday.<br />
<br />
The kids came over, and were redirected from going straight to the playroom by having several activities set up on the table.<br />
<br />
There was the <b>Museum of Russian Crafts</b> featuring birch bark containers, Zhostovo tray, Khohloma spoon, etc.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEJvS8xm4RXWok7sgOiZ2oYiC7iYFrmwDx2ZDUwH4VSN_VQfV700BkS5Qlv0f7DcvTik7wtFcF985lomherJDuT_HDWOc6vfChUGH1LEwX3Uu-d1mHzJexUAaPAYOTQNqyOgH2aOdQxM0/s1600/P3140281.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEJvS8xm4RXWok7sgOiZ2oYiC7iYFrmwDx2ZDUwH4VSN_VQfV700BkS5Qlv0f7DcvTik7wtFcF985lomherJDuT_HDWOc6vfChUGH1LEwX3Uu-d1mHzJexUAaPAYOTQNqyOgH2aOdQxM0/s320/P3140281.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Here are some of the activities we had to chose from. Note that even the small kids were able to do them with minimal help.<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBydp2KM-rbKWY2sWMMjScQf4wNO31wd1n8S0dnmAOvl8ykOq0sTu_OJacGTO3RJCoIHGMbA8dRo0cMh_ohSvBlPn3JlJmTSIoYPHI7iPIDFsTgqxjpjEdDBUTlQALnB25lhEqyjAP8pQ/s1600/P3140285.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBydp2KM-rbKWY2sWMMjScQf4wNO31wd1n8S0dnmAOvl8ykOq0sTu_OJacGTO3RJCoIHGMbA8dRo0cMh_ohSvBlPn3JlJmTSIoYPHI7iPIDFsTgqxjpjEdDBUTlQALnB25lhEqyjAP8pQ/s320/P3140285.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The coins are clued onto the cardboard with double-sided tape.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDeJxQDLjYQHYUyq2ed_eCcg7XYLFwCDyPaMsagrtVAoaE4H4EQcrZivFC6uTFpzsLxzeTCeNmhZOxprnFU5LOQTMsdMRZZnXdmhGWKz44XkR53HK84U1vRow8DdQyCIOT3Tt2aUOt94M/s1600/P3140286.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDeJxQDLjYQHYUyq2ed_eCcg7XYLFwCDyPaMsagrtVAoaE4H4EQcrZivFC6uTFpzsLxzeTCeNmhZOxprnFU5LOQTMsdMRZZnXdmhGWKz44XkR53HK84U1vRow8DdQyCIOT3Tt2aUOt94M/s320/P3140286.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The flags are labeled "Russia" on the back, which indicates top and bottom.<br />
Colored dots on the front show which color to use where.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-64fasB6WuqmhyphenhyphendPot8RqBaoFZb65Awqi8IfOOIZHkRqu9tuCVQz7fAa_oIamL7qUa3iZz1DOz46ZTbKHczfmmIUc8oDzoEu2yKNSIbWuk1kS0nYWe2_fabHfGiWF3SB2Ph90pYnFKoo/s1600/P3140287.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-64fasB6WuqmhyphenhyphendPot8RqBaoFZb65Awqi8IfOOIZHkRqu9tuCVQz7fAa_oIamL7qUa3iZz1DOz46ZTbKHczfmmIUc8oDzoEu2yKNSIbWuk1kS0nYWe2_fabHfGiWF3SB2Ph90pYnFKoo/s320/P3140287.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Russian coins to look at.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
There were also Matryoshka dolls to play with, and a picture of Matryoshka dolls to color (in different sizes: 1/2 page for the youngest and 1/4 page for the older ones).<br />
<br />
When everyone was here, I gathered the kids up to play <i>"puppies and kittens"</i>. You start by asking the kids which sound the puppies and kittens make. Then you tell each child which animal he is going to be (I had foam shapes, so I just let the kids pick out one). They all disperse and start making the sound of their animal. The goal is for the kittens/puppies to find other kittens/puppies and gather together.<br />
If there are more kids or to make the game more challenging you can use more animals, so instead of finding another 4 kids of the same kind, each kid has to find his pair. These games teach kids to listen carefully, and to distinguish sounds in the noisy room.<br />
<br />
Next we played another game, which teaches kids to talk with their eyes. You start by sitting the kids in a circle. And tell them that it is possible to talk with just their eyes, but they have to be very quite. You need to look at another person till your eyes meet. When they do, you both should smile, stand up, shake hands and change your seats. It is more challenging than it sounds. But it works miracles in calming kids down.<br />
<br />
And so I had them all sitting in a circle beside me ready to look and listen. I had my globe and an iPad with some pictures. It was a time for a short presentation about Russia. I showed them where Russia is, that it takes two continents. That the (bigger) Eastern or Asian part of Russia is called Siberia. I find it's easier to hold the attention of the small kids if I focus on only one thing. So for Russia I chose to talk about the Lake Baikal, the legend of <a href="http://baikalnature.com/info/landmarks/361" target="_blank">Shaman Rock</a>, <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Baikal_Seal" target="_blank">nerpa seals</a> and log houses.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiq9dXYBthI2jvam3Sbs-UtR-thKogqeLX2pfwE4I_7pg03R1OObPtLE2YrOTsjsRKEs6zmNgKmmNXZm51PU1sUJOHsCbUxPNvS_5rT72SkeKoegd8wn-ysyuW0eyBo3HfPLwhM9uvTUao/s1600/Russia_US_Size.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="224" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiq9dXYBthI2jvam3Sbs-UtR-thKogqeLX2pfwE4I_7pg03R1OObPtLE2YrOTsjsRKEs6zmNgKmmNXZm51PU1sUJOHsCbUxPNvS_5rT72SkeKoegd8wn-ysyuW0eyBo3HfPLwhM9uvTUao/s320/Russia_US_Size.png" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">a very visual way to show just how much bigger Russia is than USA</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
As soon as I noticed the kids getting wiggly, I moved on to the <b>"How do you say this in Russian?"</b> Q&A. The kids also got a paper with their name written in Russian. They used a talking alphabet toy to "type" and sound out their names. For some reason people find Cyrillic fascinating.<br />
<br />
Next there was a play break while we cleaned the table and got snacks ready: home made blini with jam and fruit, sushki (Russian-style pretzels). The braver adults were offered to try Kvass, but not too many went for it.<br />
<br />
After lunch activity was <b>bookmark</b> making. There were letter stencils (both Roman and Cyrillic), stickers. One side of the bookmark had a child's name in English, another - in Russian.<br />
<br />
Everyone seemed to have a great time. I made a <i>resources and ideas</i> page to send home. It has a list of web resources to help find more information about Russia, book & movies recommendations, craft ideas and such.mamalyahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10817211658840099763noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1791072449786248151.post-74736624227480645182012-02-13T00:32:00.000-05:002013-03-19T18:00:39.224-04:00Science swap<div style="font: 12.0px Helvetica; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;">
Did you ever take part in a Science swap? Oh, you've never heard of them. Neither did we until we began homeschooling. <i>If you did, and came here looking for swap bag ideas - scroll down...</i></div>
<div style="font: 12.0px Helvetica; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; min-height: 14.0px;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgX_CKlwtPJprZ4Zu3_QF5c9hgCZ5HlURJ5HEaIRrJQhCUoEVLqS3gyfWxCi5f1u5F0C3ooma_s3bNMLA4GthJvwmDOnBf38XhlCzltZ_sFSb3GiczdMvufpChWLcO35je0Gqikli1w6ME/s1600/swap.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgX_CKlwtPJprZ4Zu3_QF5c9hgCZ5HlURJ5HEaIRrJQhCUoEVLqS3gyfWxCi5f1u5F0C3ooma_s3bNMLA4GthJvwmDOnBf38XhlCzltZ_sFSb3GiczdMvufpChWLcO35je0Gqikli1w6ME/s320/swap.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="font: 12.0px Helvetica; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;">
We just made our bags for the upcoming swap. The idea is that you prepare a science activity that kids can do with minimal help; you prepare the "ingredients", write instructions, experiment log, questions, etc. And put everything in a gallon plastic bag. The rest works just like any other swap: 15 people make 15 bags each (same ones), so you end up with 15 different projects to take home!</div>
<div style="font: 12.0px Helvetica; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; min-height: 14.0px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="font: 12.0px Helvetica; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;">
So, here's our swap project - <b>Balloon Magic</b>. There are actually two different experiments, both are entertaining and simple enough for small kids, and science-y enough for older ones. </div>
<div style="font: 12.0px Helvetica; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="font: 12.0px Helvetica; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;">
First experiment is <b>"Screaming balloon"</b>, the second one is <b>"Balloon Kebab" </b>(<a href="http://sestrenki.blogspot.com/2010/08/magic.html" target="_blank">see it here</a>).</div>
<div style="font: 12.0px Helvetica; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; min-height: 14.0px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="font: 12.0px Helvetica; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;">
<i><b>Bag assembly instructions:</b></i></div>
<div style="font: 12.0px Helvetica; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;">
<i><b><br />
</b></i></div>
<div style="font: 12.0px Helvetica; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;">
- print out the label, experiment directions, log, answers (<a href="https://docs.google.com/open?id=0Byg1V9rfLvcIZWJiYmU4Y2UtNjIyZC00ZGM1LTkzZWUtYTQ1ZDBlMzZkNDlh" target="_blank">download</a>)</div>
<div style="font: 12.0px Helvetica; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;">
- punch holes for binder (optional)</div>
<div style="font: 12.0px Helvetica; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;">
- put 2 balloons, 1 hex nut, 1 penny, 1 skewer (protect the tip with a piece of drinking straw) in a zipper bag</div>
<div style="font: 12.0px Helvetica; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;">
- put a copy of the printouts in the bag</div>
<div style="font: 12.0px Helvetica; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;">
- cut out a label, attach it to the front of the bag with wide scotch tape.</div>
mamalyahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10817211658840099763noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1791072449786248151.post-52044235725680996662012-01-23T15:46:00.000-05:002012-01-23T15:46:14.169-05:00Bubble art and explosions<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqP-j6MvUVUSkJSv50LImZmn0oxZ17gyol8l1KyBVO0RFlIV1SX-3vnrVfH7dKncvb4mKXcLIivc8_vZdsZRqJjj9uk3XvTT439G8u4fr84za9S4gr-rjf7p9Ynza8kbwHx-aCIG9s2PQ/s1600/bubble+paper.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="132" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqP-j6MvUVUSkJSv50LImZmn0oxZ17gyol8l1KyBVO0RFlIV1SX-3vnrVfH7dKncvb4mKXcLIivc8_vZdsZRqJjj9uk3XvTT439G8u4fr84za9S4gr-rjf7p9Ynza8kbwHx-aCIG9s2PQ/s200/bubble+paper.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>My dear husband brought home 20lb of dry ice... We spent the whole weekend doing every possible (yet safe) experiment. <div><br />
</div><div>Here's our favorite one - bubble art. </div><div>You probably know that if you add dry ice to a bowl of soapy water, you'll get a lot of bubbles. Well, if you add food coloring to the soapy water - you'll get some colored bubbles. You've got an idea.</div><div><br />
</div><div><br />
</div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJ6LDUZs6Kl_t_oYejIKbxinNN5rON5-lUXUSjT_YBQWcCVmH9F8r_hpnxtN1MnCBuB-QfAdeC311foW1gNpvnk9nQWHOYeMOYCrgJ1LJPxwO68PEYLURpLbCc6ZaH_TKwfZIivErcnVg/s1600/blue+bubbles.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJ6LDUZs6Kl_t_oYejIKbxinNN5rON5-lUXUSjT_YBQWcCVmH9F8r_hpnxtN1MnCBuB-QfAdeC311foW1gNpvnk9nQWHOYeMOYCrgJ1LJPxwO68PEYLURpLbCc6ZaH_TKwfZIivErcnVg/s200/blue+bubbles.jpg" width="150" /></a>Here're more detailed instructions, just in case.</div><div>Put some dish soap in a cup, add warm water. Mix. Add a few drops of food coloring. Mix. Add some dry ice, stir a bit. Wait for the bubbles to form.</div><div><br />
</div><div>Take a piece of paper - press it onto the bubbles. Let dry, enjoy your "bubble" paper.</div><div><br />
</div><div><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjp_AlHEo02CrZjFVGsKcMXt6HNKd1FV8tr8csrbtDXBUgBL94TfFPKwkWgxNo0fAZ9yHuNXarxSi0f7Ri8Dt6VYOUo6k6Se-VmnR6zanos7oPgcjZW2nhU-Ui7bwyGPpgkoPU7eFZnMEM/s1600/bubble+paper2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="209" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjp_AlHEo02CrZjFVGsKcMXt6HNKd1FV8tr8csrbtDXBUgBL94TfFPKwkWgxNo0fAZ9yHuNXarxSi0f7Ri8Dt6VYOUo6k6Se-VmnR6zanos7oPgcjZW2nhU-Ui7bwyGPpgkoPU7eFZnMEM/s320/bubble+paper2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div><br />
</div><div>If your kids like explosions better than art, here are some safe ideas:</div><div>- film canister - the lid pops with a bang, it seldom flies off. (safe for home, just point away from people or breakable things)</div><div>- a plastic zipper bag - put it on the floor, watch it inflate and then pop. It's easier to handle than a balloon, but just as much fun.</div><div>- milk/juice tetra pak with a screw on cap (better to do outside as it may splash) - it makes a loud bang, the top seam breaks apart. No flying debris. </div><div><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dx7LJkacGyeIgsGP9JNh0PsUbVK_qeLYMU959FKrhM9fvQJ7LvafkEO8XW3aZj3G6v8uMhXL8obyGQgvxwJuA' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div><div><br />
</div>mamalyahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10817211658840099763noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1791072449786248151.post-57036667469531951482011-12-12T15:16:00.000-05:002011-12-12T15:16:14.942-05:00Crochet Finger puppets: Girl and Cat<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9JvUBSMskBkiqOnj3VsuAZPD171l7A1dQ0b-vqnTxBjWXg2wIN0ew9-lOdp5Z8kM3CQb8NX9ydVBLPn0zkgFxfurnDi4ouLy1P9Zpg9lBZpjwf3-wxjyKb3Ptx9-RIS-pLlVkN2nWQS0/s1600/puppets2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9JvUBSMskBkiqOnj3VsuAZPD171l7A1dQ0b-vqnTxBjWXg2wIN0ew9-lOdp5Z8kM3CQb8NX9ydVBLPn0zkgFxfurnDi4ouLy1P9Zpg9lBZpjwf3-wxjyKb3Ptx9-RIS-pLlVkN2nWQS0/s320/puppets2.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">finger puppets</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px;">I've made these for my daughter's birthday. This is my own design, and I tried to write down the pattern as I was working on them, so I could make more puppets later. And so I could share with you, of course. :-)</span><br />
<div style="font: normal normal normal 12px/normal Helvetica; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; min-height: 14px;"><br />
</div><div style="font: normal normal normal 12px/normal Helvetica; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">Here's the pattern. I've never wrote a pattern before, so I hope it makes sense. Let me know if you have any questions. </div><div style="font: normal normal normal 12px/normal Helvetica; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; min-height: 14px;"><a href="https://docs.google.com/open?id=0Byg1V9rfLvcIODMxMjQ0ZTctZmJhZi00NDU1LThhYTUtYTk2YTEwNWEyOGJj">View the pattern</a><br />
<br />
Hope you like them.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px;"><i>You can't post it, reproduce or sell the pattern without my permission; you can't use it to make toys for sale. Thank you.</i></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><table><tbody>
<tr><td><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuMEzpewbcW0bunr0tckJTthKzbD8oc7Tg71KfK_30JJCuj__XmN4uL19ZZ-vaqAMhbZGCQRVvpn8cFptJz3JM9AsbevgjgFAeCY3racO8562PthPuVOYUHKQBr7IasGwqZ958N-ytVZs/s1600/cat_puppet.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuMEzpewbcW0bunr0tckJTthKzbD8oc7Tg71KfK_30JJCuj__XmN4uL19ZZ-vaqAMhbZGCQRVvpn8cFptJz3JM9AsbevgjgFAeCY3racO8562PthPuVOYUHKQBr7IasGwqZ958N-ytVZs/s320/cat_puppet.JPG" width="240" /></a></div></td><td><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYHAInlvG-JkQQu3aMKt-uA6TNAUhTnZyUMmKYgn2KDHlITlh7-bNy5IMUAUTb68hgzjclt7M7OksXT6AG4f8zeTxz-s8_qNBkEY7wE0hoUewe4g5XarJeP54ZQe7N9SYOGHhzK4pqhyphenhyphenk/s1600/girl_puppet.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYHAInlvG-JkQQu3aMKt-uA6TNAUhTnZyUMmKYgn2KDHlITlh7-bNy5IMUAUTb68hgzjclt7M7OksXT6AG4f8zeTxz-s8_qNBkEY7wE0hoUewe4g5XarJeP54ZQe7N9SYOGHhzK4pqhyphenhyphenk/s320/girl_puppet.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><div style="font: 12.0px Helvetica; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;"><br />
</div></td></tr>
</tbody></table>mamalyahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10817211658840099763noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1791072449786248151.post-69250505033355027542011-10-04T01:53:00.000-04:002011-10-04T01:53:31.191-04:00homeschooling, the beginning.We're homeschooling our daughter... This is the end of the first month. And I can say that I know more than I did just a few weeks ago. We decided to play it safe and signed up with a correspondence school - secular, reputable (the list of their alumni is quite impressive)... We spent some time deciding on placement and such, and at the end went with a standard curriculum, 2nd semester of the first grade. It fits her well. But I want to add a proper grammar book and art study in some form...<br />
<br />
Here's what our "school" looks like.<br />
<br />
We get up around 11am. She might wake up earlier, I never know. She reads in the bed or colors or plays something quietly till I wake up.<br />
<br />
We have breakfast and talk over what we need to do that day. We usually do a lot of work on Monday. She has to do Phonics and Reading comprehension books which are way too easy for her, so she does those quickly while I clean up and set up some other school work. [she reads at 2-3 grade level. We use a couple of other books to teach advanced phonics, but they are not a part of the "school work"]<br />
<br />
When I plan our study time, I try to divide the work among 4 days. If we can't finish it or have something urgent (or more fun) to do, we always have time to complete it on Friday. I use a Teacher's planner that I've got at Target dollar section. I write down what we should do each day, and mark it when it's done. I also record our trips and PE.<br />
Speaking of PE. We found that there are many places offering classes for homeschooler at a discount rate. You just have to ask. Kiddo is taking swim lessons and gymnastics.<br />
<br />
School work usually takes us a couple of hours. I don't make her sit longer. I can make her do math drills on iPod or computer or finish her paper at some point later. I know that she'll pick up a book to read by herself.<br />
<br />
We have a science experiment or two weekly. If she feels like coloring - I get her some coloring pages that have something to do with what we study that week in Science, Health or Social studies. Coloring is a good exercise for the hand - it helps to build endurance.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">In the afternoons/early evenings -if we need to- we go shopping, run other errands. It also is the time when we have classes or meetups. If we're home - it's a free play. I need to scan the work that's done and I find it easier to do so every other day, otherwise I might have to spend an hour or two scanning, prepping, sorting on Sat. And weekend time is precious. Weekends are Family time.</div><div><br />
</div><br />
We joined a local homeschooling group. We learn about local events and classes for HS, and we have meetups... We did not join any Coops yet. Maybe for the spring session. We go to the library a lot: we check the books our, we take part in some after-school programs and come to the presentations.<br />
<br />
We have plenty of time to play. Kiddo's allowed to play on computer whenever she wants (she does not abuse this, so yes - it's whenever she wants). I do have to pre-approve what sites she goes to though. (btw, check your local school's website, they might have a login for BrainPop or other educational sites for kids. You can use it, too and save on subscription!)<br />
<br />
We make dinner around 8pm. Sometimes she helps me cook, but usually her "job" is to set up the table. Daddy comes home around 10pm. She does not always wait for him, she eats her dinner earlier if she's hungry, and just has tea & cookies with us. And then it's time to brush teeth and read in bed. It usually is "I read to you - you read to me". Sometimes we read a few pages from the phonics primer... She'll keep reading for a while after I kiss her good night... We're "night owls". But we don't have to be at school at 8am, so it works for us...mamalyahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10817211658840099763noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1791072449786248151.post-12917121526130310422011-08-31T18:31:00.000-04:002011-08-31T18:31:14.291-04:00Calendar _September 2011Here's the new fill-in calendar:<br />
<a href="https://docs.google.com/viewer?a=v&pid=explorer&chrome=true&srcid=0Byg1V9rfLvcIYjcyZjExYWItMzM0ZC00NWQyLWEyMjktYzU1MmY3NTA0Zjg4&hl=en_US">September 2011</a><br />
<br />
Happy <b>Back-to-school</b> OR <b>NOT-back-to-school</b>, everyone.<br />
<br />
We'll be homeschooling. Wish us luck! :-)<br />
<br />
mamalyahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10817211658840099763noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1791072449786248151.post-66234876015696879672011-08-10T01:08:00.000-04:002011-08-10T01:08:32.739-04:00Summer listWe scratched some things off our summer to-do list. There are still plenty to do though. We are not heat-loving people, so humid and hot summers are the worst time of the year for us. So, our list did not have many outdoor activities - those will be for the fall.<br />
<br />
Here's what we did do (in no particular order):<br />
<br />
-<b>have a goo-making playdate.</b> <a href="http://sestrenki.blogspot.com/2010/02/making-goo.html">Instructions</a> from our older post.<br />
<br />
-<b>have a science playdate</b>. We did not organize that one. We made Poop. Yeah... But it was a lot of fun. And I think everyone including adults learned a thing or two. Wanna try this? <a href="http://www.squidoo.com/make-poo">Here's a good how-to</a>.<br />
<br />
-<b>melt crayon bits in the car</b> parked outside (required 3-digit heat index). I don't remember where we got the idea from. But here's what you do: put the bits of the crayons in the silicon mold, put the mold into a baking pan, and leave it on the dashboard. Park the car in the sunny location (beach parking is great). The verdict is - it works! Crayola crayons melt the best, cheap ones separate into solids and wax (though I did not have this problem when I did this in the oven).<br />
<br />
-<b>ride a boogie-board</b>. It took some time to find a beach that allows boogie-boards, but it was a lot of fun.<br />
<br />
-speaking of the beach. <b>Sand casting</b> seems to be a trend of the year, but we did not try this yet. The easiest one requires a bottle of glue, the more complicated one - plaster of paris. Here's the<a href="http://familyfun.go.com/crafts/home-garden-projects/outdoor-projects/beach-crafts/sand-masks-666945/"> how-to from Family Fun magazine</a>.<br />
<br />
-another popular trend is <b>Giant Bubbles</b>. <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3i-zYdOPG2k&feature=relmfu">This video</a> convinced me to give it a try. And it was a lot of FUN! Our neighbors stopped to admire them. We are still looking for a perfect soap recipe, it seemed that it has to be thicker than usual - the best soap so far was jelly-fied old bubble soap.<br />
<br />
-<b>fly a kite</b>. Beach IS the best place for the kite. Again, not all the beaches allow kite-flying. We opened the kite-flying season this april on the lawn by the Washington Memorial in DC. It's always windy there.<br />
<br />
-<b>swing in a hammock</b>. Bliss...<br />
<br />
-<b>grow some food</b>. It's not true that growing veggies will make your child like them. So, grow something your child likes. This way she'll be more interested in watching them grow and helping you tend to them. For us the veggie that kiddo loves best is "cucumberry".<br />
<br />
-<b>go ice skating</b>. Yes, there are rinks that are open year-round. It's nice and cold there (don't forget a sweater). The kids loved the ice "shavings" that the guys on hockey skates made for them. I guess snowballs are really cool when it's super hot. :-D<br />
<br />
-<b>make popsicles</b>. I love love love my <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Zoku-ZK101-Quick-Pop-Maker/dp/B003U9ZCRO?ie=UTF8&tag=sestrenki-20&link_code=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969" target="_blank">Zoku</a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=sestrenki-20&l=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969&o=1&a=B003U9ZCRO" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important; padding: 0px !important;" width="1" /> (and <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Magic-Bullet-MBR-1701-17-Piece-Express/dp/B001WAKFDY?ie=UTF8&tag=sestrenki-20&link_code=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969" target="_blank">Magic bullet</a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=sestrenki-20&l=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969&o=1&a=B001WAKFDY" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important; padding: 0px !important;" width="1" />). Best way to make my picky kid eat a cup of fruit is to turn it into a popsicle. Her favorite one is Watermelon: puree watermelon with apple sauce and a dash of sugar (if using unsweetened apple sauce).<br />
<br />
-<b>learn to make friendship bracelets</b>. I'll write a post on that later. To my great surprise I found a way to make bracelets that 5yo can do.<br />
<br />
-<b>make a rag rug</b>. We're still working on this one. We're weaving it, so kiddo could help. It's big.<br />
<br />
-do <b>free crafts/activities</b>. This is always a great opportunity to try something new. Many craft stores offer weekly make-&-take craft sessions, and some sports stores have camping inspired activities. You can also check your local library, museum or state park.<br />
<br />
-<b>read</b>. If you need an incentive - join a reading club at the library. Kids get prices or certificates at the end of the summer. Another cool trick that would work with older kids - read a first chapter to them. Tell them that if they want to know what happens next - they have to finish reading the book themselves. Put/take books in the places where your kids are bored otherwise (bus rides, doctor's office, etc). My daughter loves to read in the car. She does not get car sick, somehow...mamalyahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10817211658840099763noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1791072449786248151.post-41423410674022290802011-06-24T00:38:00.000-04:002011-06-24T00:38:47.765-04:00Chopsticks<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgysOVuoFP1S0GUDsMeqSNL2XCZxz9ueTsqXDSOmCKlT3VsLe5meDqJhA-6t4NjB3UBGvsZ_ZlnoHMO3erJ8BgdcoH99tPgXgQzh_AwNjw_D5m3NcLVZ0A0Ag8Qebb1eOFG-cAA1UMe-y4/s1600/pro_2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgysOVuoFP1S0GUDsMeqSNL2XCZxz9ueTsqXDSOmCKlT3VsLe5meDqJhA-6t4NjB3UBGvsZ_ZlnoHMO3erJ8BgdcoH99tPgXgQzh_AwNjw_D5m3NcLVZ0A0Ag8Qebb1eOFG-cAA1UMe-y4/s200/pro_2.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>When we were on vacation in San Diego earlier this month, we bought a pair of <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Edison-Training-Chopsticks-Handed-Children/dp/B001LXUUVO?ie=UTF8&tag=sestrenki-20&link_code=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969" target="_blank">kids' chopsticks</a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=sestrenki-20&l=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969&o=1&a=B001LXUUVO" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important; padding: 0px !important;" width="1" />. They have special rings for the fingers, teaching kids the correct way to hold chopsticks. They come in Left or Right handed versions. Our daughter loves them. She tries to eat everything with them.<br />
<br />
And it is supposed to be good for her small motor skills. ;-)<br />
<br />
So, if you've ever seen kids chopsticks and wondered is they really work - they do.mamalyahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10817211658840099763noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1791072449786248151.post-50606325203886404082011-06-23T16:23:00.000-04:002013-03-19T02:10:04.519-04:00Monte-LEGO (or LEGO-sori)Kiddo did a huge progress in reading, so I decided we need to do a math activity for a change. And I had an epiphany: why not use LEGO bricks to make manipulatives. So, here you are: "Golden beads" activity made of LEGO single bricks. By the way, many non-Montessori schools use similar counting activities using <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Learning-Resources-Activity-Counting-Numbers/dp/B000219XZ0?ie=UTF8&tag=sestrenki-20&link_code=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969" target="_blank">math rods</a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=sestrenki-20&l=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969&o=1&a=B000219XZ0" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important; padding: 0px !important;" width="1" />.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqG8_rXc7-dTxRRro0odYyHawxy6499zcctpvoM9iTw3wZrjgI7q5ocbgiht7pQknM5yc4X2LptewqOwd56IRCDHQ_M0_TRzr9RGylHahHe6nMaCslrKssFLiM53CWc71Y31KnbPyRMEc/s1600/IMG_20110623_155544.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqG8_rXc7-dTxRRro0odYyHawxy6499zcctpvoM9iTw3wZrjgI7q5ocbgiht7pQknM5yc4X2LptewqOwd56IRCDHQ_M0_TRzr9RGylHahHe6nMaCslrKssFLiM53CWc71Y31KnbPyRMEc/s200/IMG_20110623_155544.jpg" width="186" /></a></div>
You need nine single units and nine 10-bars. You can also make a 100-square. (PS: The bricks are smooth and you can't feel where one ends and another begins, as with beads. So using the bricks of different colors makes it easier for a child to count them if she wants to check her answer.)<br />
<br />
There are a lot of activities that you can do with them:<br />
- counting. 1_2_3...9 (on single beads, then goes a 10-bar) 11_12... etc.<br />
- count by 10.<br />
<br />
- make up 2-digit numbers: first ask a child to make a number for you; when she's comfortable with that ask her to "read" a number you made. Then you can mix the rods with the decimal number cards to teach the child the formation of complex numbers and the matching quantity. These activities also form an impression of the hierarchy of numbers, place value, and the role of zero in determining place value.<br />
<br />
- adding numbers without carrying over: for example here's how you do 11+12=?<br />
make 11 (one 10-bar and one single bead) , make 12 next to it. Add 10-bars = two 10-bars = 20. Add single beads = three beads = 3. Make up the number = 23. This makes addition very concrete for small kids.<br />
-same for subtraction.<br />
<br />
-addition with carrying over is a bit more complex but it's also do-able. But I like using plain sticks for this.mamalyahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10817211658840099763noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1791072449786248151.post-3389753663263272262011-06-22T00:44:00.000-04:002011-06-22T00:44:36.211-04:00door stopper<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaGnxR35KHuzxW0KeU1JI4ARycRRBbh9oyPoXLrDtT9LrCRRIKw1li1B2PyGYqBaFyHh8dTkYIq4EIbiwobQsQGcPjRv_wLOQunI5BuADWSn_2rQnulaIso4Om1cAQqeZeHKrXmeExH04/s1600/door+stopper.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaGnxR35KHuzxW0KeU1JI4ARycRRBbh9oyPoXLrDtT9LrCRRIKw1li1B2PyGYqBaFyHh8dTkYIq4EIbiwobQsQGcPjRv_wLOQunI5BuADWSn_2rQnulaIso4Om1cAQqeZeHKrXmeExH04/s200/door+stopper.JPG" width="150" /></a></div>Here's a little hack I came up with. It serves two purposes:<br />
a) it keeps the lamp cord in place (to prevent the lamp from being accidentally pulled down);<br />
b) it is a door stopper; it prevents the door handle from slamming into the edge of the bookcase.<br />
Cheap. Easy. It works.mamalyahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10817211658840099763noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1791072449786248151.post-26768795853414291802011-05-27T14:53:00.000-04:002011-05-27T14:53:42.746-04:00"eat me, I'm nobody"Just a quick observation...<br />
Did you ever notice that if an animal in the kids cartoons or books is not given a voice and a name it's "nobody". You don't care about it. At all. Your kids don't care. And so, it does not bother you (or kids) when that animal gets killed, cooked, eaten, etc. (well, other animals have to eat something, right?) We have a picture in the book when the Bremen Town Musicians (Rooster among them) are sitting around the table in the robbers' house and there's a roasted chicken on it. It does not seem to bother anyone...mamalyahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10817211658840099763noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1791072449786248151.post-34125538775037036072011-05-02T15:17:00.000-04:002011-05-02T15:17:34.049-04:00How to wash extra long hair using hotel sized bottle of shampoo.I have a very long hair. I like it in a bun, so it's easy to not notice that it's gotten too long. I was looking for a way to wash it efficiently, without using too much shampoo, water, etc. Here's my formula. It works great. I hope it helps you to teach your long-haired daughter not to use a whole bottle of shampoo every time she washes her hair; or helps to make your travel lighter and easier.<br />
<br />
<b>Step 1</b> - always wash your hair AFTER you wash yourself. (this way the hair will get wet thoroughly, and the clean hair will not get dirty again from soap splashes and high humidity.)<br />
<br />
<b>Step 2</b> - <b>pretreat</b> - take a small amount of shampoo and rub it into the scalp. Don't bother making sure that you get it on ALL the length of the hair, it's not nessesary. This is what you usually waste your<br />
shampoo on. The oil on the hair does not let the shampoo to foam up well, and you have to use more and more. Don't bother. Rinse. Move on.<br />
<br />
<b>Step 3 </b>- <b>wash</b>. Notice how much less shampoo you are using. Rinse. No need to repeat! Use conditioner if you like.<br />
<br />
<b>Step 4</b> - adjust the shower stream to the max (if possible) and lower the temperature a bit. Using a thick-tooth comb, comb your hair. It's easier to comb in the shower and will minimize tangles.<br />
<br />
Step out of the shower. Dry your hair as usual.mamalyahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10817211658840099763noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1791072449786248151.post-33478160052186795302011-04-07T19:09:00.000-04:002011-04-07T19:09:32.728-04:00Classic "practical life" activity<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj90Z97NXTeh0UFzIjZbOBt4q4m2CK947loqHeE7Ta2_KsKOqUFAAt2ZUlUAYXcikw3u0Zj24l-siBO9SuO3FcXd9vOogS9TppTezBMMw54ah9xZyYWmLdVZMxDAehARYom3oJyjI2E6cc/s1600/P4077057.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; display: inline !important; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzY15bdzgSR4L2Aj3QMLk8UdzfRNGzUpLIAAPMbhfA46K2dCJfURP0DFb12_q0aWDnwXq1qpDnfr_tpaOwu-1Zks6gwYBpQzEhXcAEiSoSRtmIEmx9sdCGxsTmVc6fhUUNkKH5etxamlI/s1600/edge.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzY15bdzgSR4L2Aj3QMLk8UdzfRNGzUpLIAAPMbhfA46K2dCJfURP0DFb12_q0aWDnwXq1qpDnfr_tpaOwu-1Zks6gwYBpQzEhXcAEiSoSRtmIEmx9sdCGxsTmVc6fhUUNkKH5etxamlI/s200/edge.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>Our today's practical life activity was made possible by generous donation by Daddy. His old shirt's sleeves were cut into squares that we used for this classic two-part activity. First, we fringed the edges; Then we sew on some buttons.<br />
<br />
These are self-explanatory, and you might still remember doing this in elementary school, so, I'll just write some tips.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj90Z97NXTeh0UFzIjZbOBt4q4m2CK947loqHeE7Ta2_KsKOqUFAAt2ZUlUAYXcikw3u0Zj24l-siBO9SuO3FcXd9vOogS9TppTezBMMw54ah9xZyYWmLdVZMxDAehARYom3oJyjI2E6cc/s1600/P4077057.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj90Z97NXTeh0UFzIjZbOBt4q4m2CK947loqHeE7Ta2_KsKOqUFAAt2ZUlUAYXcikw3u0Zj24l-siBO9SuO3FcXd9vOogS9TppTezBMMw54ah9xZyYWmLdVZMxDAehARYom3oJyjI2E6cc/s200/P4077057.JPG" width="150" /></a></div>- use woven fabric with low thread count. It will be more difficult to fringe the edges of the sateen vs linen, e.g.<br />
- use embroidery hoop to support the fabric when sewing on buttons.<br />
- use blunt end needle, like the ones that are used by knitters.<br />
- start with the buttons that have 2 holes.<br />
Draw the diagram for the 4-hole buttons combinations and help the child figure out the directions.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjstwStUa7ZAPm5OeZy0Tjb2irvOGTbK1w_ni2N5bFExKbRF0FD1V9JwAOS0SEyT98ZBKOnN_uB1HjqFF0jlweLgu0GcMsF_o4JBuoxX7BPTar4rn_kxVrdYhPyzi1Gu9kgepJbTC_Gobg/s1600/buttons.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjstwStUa7ZAPm5OeZy0Tjb2irvOGTbK1w_ni2N5bFExKbRF0FD1V9JwAOS0SEyT98ZBKOnN_uB1HjqFF0jlweLgu0GcMsF_o4JBuoxX7BPTar4rn_kxVrdYhPyzi1Gu9kgepJbTC_Gobg/s320/buttons.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>- <i>to modify the activity for younger kids:</i><br />
make buttons from heavy cardstock (cut the circles and use a hole-punch to make the holes) and use a sheet of plastic canvas for the fabric. Use thin shoe laces or a plastic needle with yarn to sew.mamalyahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10817211658840099763noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1791072449786248151.post-50039030351896326092011-03-30T18:34:00.000-04:002011-03-30T18:34:05.040-04:00Here's to a cat!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhmz1LWC84_bdtskL9LadhyphenhyphenynTDQ8U9boZouJl-0cQVFW_cpIRoTrjCZaS2EdSe7V29R0MMhraefEc39uPXtwbcbNIOVI81JLZvH56tpGtRWG_bCxN7qD23rxl00sToHEjStF8cRfEEbg/s1600/window-watch.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhmz1LWC84_bdtskL9LadhyphenhyphenynTDQ8U9boZouJl-0cQVFW_cpIRoTrjCZaS2EdSe7V29R0MMhraefEc39uPXtwbcbNIOVI81JLZvH56tpGtRWG_bCxN7qD23rxl00sToHEjStF8cRfEEbg/s320/window-watch.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>We have a cat. It's his third birthday this spring. It was difficult at first to convince my husband to get a cat, but it was so worth it. I grew up with cats and dogs, and he never had a pet, not even a gold fish. I strongly believe that having a pet at home is essential, the pets can teach a child something that nothing else can.<br />
<br />
First of all, let me tell you about the process of adopting an animal in US. If you have a small child -ours was 2yo at the time- most pet shelters will not even speak to you. If they do, you'll need to fill up a long form, provide some references, go through a home inspection, etc. We are very grateful we were able to find one organization that met us, talked to us, and decided that our kid won't break the kitten's neck. Thank you, <a href="http://www.folas.org/">FOLAS</a>, for your trust.<br />
<br />
I was very specific that we had to adopt a kitten, not a tiny one, but nevertheless a kitten. We've petsitted an adult cat and we knew that there was no chance in the world that a cat with a "baggage" could be trusted to be good to a small child, that we could tame the adult cat. Cats are very intelligent animals and have a much better memory than dogs. They could be loyal to a new owner who takes care of them and feeds them, but I would never trust them with a child. (here is <a href="http://www.sniksnak.com/cathealth/whydo.html">some trivia about the cats' behaviors</a>)<br />
<br />
The cats grow fast. So a few months after we brought a small-ish kitten home, he grew into a behemoth. At first, the kiddo was jealous of the kitten, not letting anyone pick him up, upset when he got new toys. Almost as if we brought another baby home. She was very careful around him, and so overjoyed the first time she was allowed to hold the kitten. She called him "her brother" for some time, too. The cat was very protective of her, and very loyal to her. He was next to her when she was playing, watching over her when she was napping. They've bonded fast and well.<br />
<br />
It's easy to spot the parents who never had a cat/dog when growing up - they get a gold fish or a hamster for their kids, because they think that this will teach the child that "having a pet = responsibility". Is not there more the kids should be getting from the experience? Well, not unless they have an intelligent pet who they can truly communicate with, like a cat or a dog. These animals can teach kids to respect others' space; to "read" the non-verbal language animals communicate with; and ultimately this will make kids safer, less likely to be attacked by a stray animal. And pets teach them about love, loyalty and trust. Can a gold fish do that? I doubt that.<br />
<br />
So, here's to Cat. We love you. Happy Birthday! I promise to buy you some treats and pompons.mamalyahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10817211658840099763noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1791072449786248151.post-26356208278193735642011-03-10T16:38:00.000-05:002011-03-10T16:38:47.115-05:00reading worksheetsThe kiddo made a huge progress in reading over the past few months. We are currently doing the Intermediate books (<a href="http://www.progressivephonics.com/~suzettew/index.php?option=com_content&view=category&layout=blog&id=24&Itemid=7">Progressive phonics books</a>), and the Level 1 workbook (2nd grade Hooked on Phonics). Hands down, Progressive phonics is our favorite program!<br />
<br />
We began renting books from the library for her to <i>read by herself</i>. We take a dozen of books, read each of them several times until she can read them well without any help.<br />
<br />
Today we decided to try something new. I found some reading comprehension worksheets online. There are short stories, very easy for a child to read, followed by 4 questions about the story. She loved this new work! Check out the <a href="http://www.superteacherworksheets.com/1st-comprehension.html">Super Teacher Worksheets</a> website, there are lots of good printable worksheets, and not just for reading.mamalyahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10817211658840099763noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1791072449786248151.post-88837265977093917602011-02-04T16:57:00.001-05:002011-02-04T16:59:06.031-05:00homemade plant-me paperWe got a little seed infused plant-me card recently, and it gave me an idea that it should be easy to make them from scratch at home. You just need to make paper and add seeds into it. Easy-peasy!<br />
<br />
I have a <a href="http://www.amazon.com/National-Geographic-Paper-Recycling-Kit/dp/B0012JAWDS?ie=UTF8&tag=sestrenki-20&link_code=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969" target="_blank">Paper recycling kit</a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=sestrenki-20&l=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969&o=1&a=B0012JAWDS" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important; padding: 0px !important;" width="1" />, that I bought a few years ago on clearance. But any old blender or mixer will suffice. I may want to purchase a cheap one at the garage sale or a thrift store as it's not a good idea to use a blender you use to make your smoothies. If you are using a paper making kit - use the tools and follow the directions that came with it. But you can also make your own frame by attaching fine mesh (like window screens) to a wooden frame.<br />
<div><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEW3Cft6WTiHBNvXgSD3tYmlEnUP8-6RjlCtcHNSduDzHU494_wmxt4_gN-Azw4EXtAfzQs9pUlPZUJK936m4nRsInfBFxLcleBt4z0SjDwxhGL8_qXq6GJzzbX-SPQNzeQlv0ycatWU0/s1600/P2026966.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEW3Cft6WTiHBNvXgSD3tYmlEnUP8-6RjlCtcHNSduDzHU494_wmxt4_gN-Azw4EXtAfzQs9pUlPZUJK936m4nRsInfBFxLcleBt4z0SjDwxhGL8_qXq6GJzzbX-SPQNzeQlv0ycatWU0/s320/P2026966.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><b>Get your ingredients. </b>I once make paper from dryer lint. It worked! Lint paper is very soft, felt-like and would disintegrate as soon as you get it moist. But for plant-me cards I want sturdier paper. So, I got some napkins and a handful of shredded paper. You can also use construction paper, egg cartons, newspapers - most any kind of paper, other than glossy magazines. You need to cut it into small bits, or use a shredder.<br />
<i>Theoretically, torn paper is better as it absorbs water faster, but shredded paper worked very well for us. </i>As for the seeds, any small flat seeds will work fine.<br />
<br />
<b>Make pulp.</b> Next put your paper bits into a bowl of hot water and leave to soak for several hours or overnight. Use a blender to puree the wet paper.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgK1F1cShcGiKs5RHDBNT_dsMyHjvoFwHVcNITQWvYNAprmviWNdtp1gR6dgiBG7DRSdonPezaeDL3zmGY6MgYXWjQhKYo9BbVEQSj5EinsaGRiHMZc5Yj4OwXB5RnnGiaiM40jyh-e92o/s1600/P2026968.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgK1F1cShcGiKs5RHDBNT_dsMyHjvoFwHVcNITQWvYNAprmviWNdtp1gR6dgiBG7DRSdonPezaeDL3zmGY6MgYXWjQhKYo9BbVEQSj5EinsaGRiHMZc5Yj4OwXB5RnnGiaiM40jyh-e92o/s320/P2026968.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><b>Gather pulp onto the screen. </b>Pour the paper pulp into a tub. Slip the frame into the tub and gather a nice layer of pulp. We wanted to make thicker paper, and the result was a paper that was almost as thick and sturdy as an egg carton.<br />
<br />
<b>Add seeds. </b>While the frame is still in the water, sprinkle the seeds on top of it, tap them in gently. You could have added the seeds to the pulp before pouring the mixture into the tub. We used very small seeds -Black-eyed Susan- and it was easier to sprinkle them over the paper. Also, no seeds get wasted this way.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIG_-q_av5ntJeasS3jhVlOve4CNSFxGMR6EpXmwu_ro0woOjdyGDCm0yg5cErGLYs9j83et-AWvYrEzv30se_oP7ENrIfHHKXIOwHUvSX5s-fo8oRtKc9uxbltUFaz_1uTrBPyjR2UIs/s1600/P2026969.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="242" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIG_-q_av5ntJeasS3jhVlOve4CNSFxGMR6EpXmwu_ro0woOjdyGDCm0yg5cErGLYs9j83et-AWvYrEzv30se_oP7ENrIfHHKXIOwHUvSX5s-fo8oRtKc9uxbltUFaz_1uTrBPyjR2UIs/s320/P2026969.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><b>"Wring" and dry the paper. </b>Lift the frame up. Let it drip. Put a washcloth over the frame (or flip the frame over onto the dishtowel, whichever is easier for you). Using a sponge, gently press out as much water as you can. Peel the paper sheet off the frame and off the towel, put it on the paper towels. Let it dry undisturbed for 12-24 hr. And you can reuse or recycle these towels later.<br />
<i>We found that drying it on the paper towel gives you a flatter paper vs hanging it to dry.</i><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgE8_SzIFcV_ioZ-p5_V03QpFftEe-blgWm8VbX1hzWaoJf4XPET60HgOHu0YnoXHDqMeXEfnZyemWGxdATPi3gDoe68aFz14uD8-6P_Jp87z_UN3ByYiqEC9WaUipmHkbtu3SFQG55c5Y/s1600/P2046972.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgE8_SzIFcV_ioZ-p5_V03QpFftEe-blgWm8VbX1hzWaoJf4XPET60HgOHu0YnoXHDqMeXEfnZyemWGxdATPi3gDoe68aFz14uD8-6P_Jp87z_UN3ByYiqEC9WaUipmHkbtu3SFQG55c5Y/s320/P2046972.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>Now you can cut your new paper into shapes, make cards using it. And don't forget to include the planting instructions before you give them to your friends.mamalyahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10817211658840099763noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1791072449786248151.post-45006490304634575612011-02-01T15:16:00.000-05:002011-02-01T15:16:51.835-05:00Complete me.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUHlF99fgFPcFgprsS1158O9skIF6tz__S0oxBes0N_SXhqhUc1KEAh83KCvVAAEiepM3qbTWFQi520Pyk-wiUO_tGBRrWI8qFccaD1M9Vse_tJf-8J1f9hTzbfYgQvhpInAD-7IJs1U8/s1600/V-heart.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUHlF99fgFPcFgprsS1158O9skIF6tz__S0oxBes0N_SXhqhUc1KEAh83KCvVAAEiepM3qbTWFQi520Pyk-wiUO_tGBRrWI8qFccaD1M9Vse_tJf-8J1f9hTzbfYgQvhpInAD-7IJs1U8/s200/V-heart.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>The kiddo is going to have a "gift exchange" at school for the Valentine's day. Since, most of the parents shop for V-day goodies at the same big-box store, we try to come up with something a bit more original (and sugar free). And it has to be something you can make cheaply, fast, in large quantities (we have 30 kids in the class this year) and with a "help" of a 5 yo.<br />
<br />
Small kids love bubbles almost as much as they love candy; so we decided to go with bubble wands again. <a href="http://sestrenki.blogspot.com/2010/02/making-valentines.html">They were a big hit last year.</a> I got a pack of <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Our-Wedding-Bubble-Tunes/dp/B004AAEEWG?ie=UTF8&tag=sestrenki-20&link_code=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969" target="_blank">pink bubble tubes with heart tops</a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=sestrenki-20&l=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969&o=1&a=B004AAEEWG" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important; padding: 0px !important;" width="1" /> at the wedding aisle at the craft store (who cares that it was intended to be a wedding day favor!? Stuff at THAT aisle is more tasteful than what's sold for the V-day).<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifnJ4jX-qmC0RopkmtiRg1ZkebYspfP_Zbz2qGJFqq3mH0nDmeioeuXE1_dlt0D6_G6Kn1QQkEOwZQBK001lPf3Phxqs_rRNVcPLxC995BXhX2WrrX_cIB4wM1RZlATm6kEk1T8VfyBCc/s1600/list.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifnJ4jX-qmC0RopkmtiRg1ZkebYspfP_Zbz2qGJFqq3mH0nDmeioeuXE1_dlt0D6_G6Kn1QQkEOwZQBK001lPf3Phxqs_rRNVcPLxC995BXhX2WrrX_cIB4wM1RZlATm6kEk1T8VfyBCc/s200/list.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>Then we made tags. We cut out small hearts, and did two thumbprints on each. We drew faces on one print, leaving the other one unfinished. I hope that the kids will draw on it after they get the bubbles. <i>[by the way, the </i><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Emberleys-Complete-Funprint-Drawing-Book/dp/0316174483?ie=UTF8&tag=sestrenki-20&link_code=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969" target="_blank"><i>Thumbprint drawing book</i></a><i><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=sestrenki-20&l=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969&o=1&a=0316174483" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important; padding: 0px !important;" width="1" /> was a huge hit with my daughter] </i><br />
<i></i>I thought of writing "complete me", but 3-5yo aren't good at V-day humor. The back side of the tag has Kiddo's name.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipyvhwRyWTV5vstYbEHCI9U9q9Zb9XhhRmTenES74nxAvZV_k6pEKcJj9KwqzSF9I0Xc0l7LI8XdO1zyA9WA_R1e19cfWrwl5exA89bilAr7vMlefPxU8Am8Pk926Sjb4_x4lurlfpphA/s1600/V-stacks.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipyvhwRyWTV5vstYbEHCI9U9q9Zb9XhhRmTenES74nxAvZV_k6pEKcJj9KwqzSF9I0Xc0l7LI8XdO1zyA9WA_R1e19cfWrwl5exA89bilAr7vMlefPxU8Am8Pk926Sjb4_x4lurlfpphA/s200/V-stacks.JPG" width="200" /></a></div><i>We managed to squeeze in a small math lesson - skip counting by 5. We put finished tags in the piles, 5 hearts each. And then counted by 5. I was trying to make a point that skip counting allows you to count faster.</i><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyFJ7ATrcvn1oJ4EbwWnhlKBfZ-4ck4pxrBN3jSQPUclo0bvquqcDxkFzjqcgu_wmsxrVM0IGj4kkOCGi-5oYBJowM5a8HKgHjpB-9xo3T8CnIAFfY_U4ekKFyNountZEpIxPB6Pooq_Q/s1600/V-bubbles.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyFJ7ATrcvn1oJ4EbwWnhlKBfZ-4ck4pxrBN3jSQPUclo0bvquqcDxkFzjqcgu_wmsxrVM0IGj4kkOCGi-5oYBJowM5a8HKgHjpB-9xo3T8CnIAFfY_U4ekKFyNountZEpIxPB6Pooq_Q/s200/V-bubbles.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>Attach the tags to the bottle tops with a piece of string.<br />
We even decorated the box.<br />
Ta-da!<br />
<i><br />
</i>mamalyahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10817211658840099763noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1791072449786248151.post-17889999066035146782011-01-13T16:37:00.000-05:002011-01-13T16:37:10.695-05:00Cutting.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgcUieB-zi2YzhpKoE7_F3Q7n7VyrYzzk0HKLS6jnrlPyOprQIKLZAhXyTm1s_vSh-2TsXcF64CGQFmgGk8Dyev26QGk0DtD09Si7AfecGcjbfJPoni5tVz-FMT2HQN8ZyqvKlLn9_sys/s1600/letter_open.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgcUieB-zi2YzhpKoE7_F3Q7n7VyrYzzk0HKLS6jnrlPyOprQIKLZAhXyTm1s_vSh-2TsXcF64CGQFmgGk8Dyev26QGk0DtD09Si7AfecGcjbfJPoni5tVz-FMT2HQN8ZyqvKlLn9_sys/s320/letter_open.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
This is a simple "Practical Life" activity.<br />
All you need is a letter opener and some envelopes (check your junk mail). First, glue them shut. Or have your child licking the glue strips - it's fun. Then cut them open. We only had a few enveloped today, so we had to cut the paper instead. It worked well, too.mamalyahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10817211658840099763noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1791072449786248151.post-28851868542806498572010-12-23T13:31:00.000-05:002010-12-23T13:31:36.016-05:00The crazy party.We were looking for a low-key in-house Birthday party idea for our 5yo daughter. We were to have a dozen of kids from 4 to 11yo, so we needed something that would work for all of them. My idea was to make a giant ball pit.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2X3UFKNBSfqvz8CPW30zmgPB_bhL46Tc409PiYtMmwQwjXlkLMDzASWxyVPHUAIsCOtThX0VtPnZYMi0w10-ldlN5I-RlzSjjAH_1dILjUTA4xZtNan50EXmmUazz6weGzMZn_MT_0YM/s1600/PC186709.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2X3UFKNBSfqvz8CPW30zmgPB_bhL46Tc409PiYtMmwQwjXlkLMDzASWxyVPHUAIsCOtThX0VtPnZYMi0w10-ldlN5I-RlzSjjAH_1dILjUTA4xZtNan50EXmmUazz6weGzMZn_MT_0YM/s200/PC186709.JPG" width="200" /></a>We took out all the furniture from the bedroom, and rented over 5 000 plastic balls. <i>(I wanted to buy them and found a manufacture, but they were sold out)</i><br />
First of all, it took a while to find a party rental place that had that many balls. Also, we spent about 12 man-hours washing them as they were way too dirty. Anyway...<br />
<br />
It was a huge success, and that's what matters. The kids had a ball (pun intended). It was very loud at times, but there were no whining or bored kids! Now the kiddo wants the balls to come back every year. I'm not so sure about that.<br />
<i>[PS: that's only about 2K of balls on that picture.]</i><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnRXAbE5i8BGb4cqwcO5L60EUyHQTeZVBZhhhj_Jfeq-BXuGmpXGEO6jjRHKhYeKZMd40S0ZD2QiKIp5VV0XTEvPxCIKapBhm1xlAnze-dvpFPE7CTdwttVZOBeh76_khbwUMb2tmLpcI/s1600/table.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnRXAbE5i8BGb4cqwcO5L60EUyHQTeZVBZhhhj_Jfeq-BXuGmpXGEO6jjRHKhYeKZMd40S0ZD2QiKIp5VV0XTEvPxCIKapBhm1xlAnze-dvpFPE7CTdwttVZOBeh76_khbwUMb2tmLpcI/s200/table.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>Another hit was the dining table covered with sheets of drawing paper. There were some crayons for the kids to doodle with <i>(safer option for drawing on the table than pencils or markers)</i>. It was as practical as it was fun. At some point one side of the table got too dirty, so I just replaced that sheet of paper.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjm1eq06KreLmX3Jo7JhpYhrwlJW_kLzPWrcHWpeP5UkhR0sxSUOhe23vbNEUqfQ1w0PhQAleTJQP73KzwU-q241fFNGLSj-Yy1o7Y3B_lKXc0-Oko3LWLtjjlE3Qjyf3-f67DnbU_SQTQ/s1600/PC196778.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="161" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjm1eq06KreLmX3Jo7JhpYhrwlJW_kLzPWrcHWpeP5UkhR0sxSUOhe23vbNEUqfQ1w0PhQAleTJQP73KzwU-q241fFNGLSj-Yy1o7Y3B_lKXc0-Oko3LWLtjjlE3Qjyf3-f67DnbU_SQTQ/s200/PC196778.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>We also had a self-serve sprinkles for the cupcakes, and the kids loved that as well. Non-pareils are the glitter of the baking world, so expect the mess.mamalyahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10817211658840099763noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1791072449786248151.post-48015835212563457652010-12-09T18:36:00.000-05:002010-12-09T18:36:59.078-05:00thrifty Holidays 101: garland<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0kA5SLc3VSEFsg9XKRJoQbxL0IRPmTVTbq5lwDsAIcEnQemY4zls6nN89_6AaVyrQaXOS4foZqUF29wRABdNzD86j5xbr75ru0gZsbAjbxn7dgOacq1s97RorrGsVUTwOBz4qCaDUF1c/s1600/trash2treasure.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0kA5SLc3VSEFsg9XKRJoQbxL0IRPmTVTbq5lwDsAIcEnQemY4zls6nN89_6AaVyrQaXOS4foZqUF29wRABdNzD86j5xbr75ru0gZsbAjbxn7dgOacq1s97RorrGsVUTwOBz4qCaDUF1c/s1600/trash2treasure.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px;">Gingerbread men garland from mailing paper</span></span></span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>This was my favorite cutting activity when I was in kindergarten. You can say, that I was abscessed with folding the paper, drawing 1/2 silhouettes and cutting them, unfolding to see what I've got.<br />
<div><br />
</div><div>It's super easy. If you woke up and remembered that you were in charge of classroom decorations, and the party is today - you can still make it! Here's how to.</div><div><br />
</div><div>1) Find a piece of paper that's as long as you want your garland to be. <i>Note, that if your garland is longer that 10 Gingerbread men, it might be too difficult to cut through that many layers of paper</i>. </div><div>2) Decide how wide you want your design to be. </div><div>3) Fold the paper back and forth like accordion (fan fold). Draw your design on the top layer. You can either draw the whole Gingerbread man or just a 1/2 of it. <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Verdana, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> </span><b>Make sure their hands are touching at the folded edge</b>. If you're making a very long garland, you can make a wider folds and draw 2 men, or Gingerbread man and a Snowman.<br />
4) Cut out your garland, being sure not to cut the fold lines under the hands.</div><div>5) Open up the garland. </div><div>6) Iron it with a hot iron with steam turned off.</div><div>7) For extra credit, decorate the Gingerbread men. </div>mamalyahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10817211658840099763noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1791072449786248151.post-2813459982063463952010-12-06T17:45:00.000-05:002010-12-06T17:45:42.234-05:00Happy Hanukah<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4-5IrfcXqrbnD14VRiAWmiqUozF8ZwCAAv02GigG_RYu6OFDH1OQHDDgbUNfSQSwHTgHKa4oUP63-_Oy4qYIaZx1F4-O_b6yz7s_JqHbYX4doKKVbPK1AZ-naM5BLQqrCtxipL1UPpHQ/s1600/menorah_bagel.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4-5IrfcXqrbnD14VRiAWmiqUozF8ZwCAAv02GigG_RYu6OFDH1OQHDDgbUNfSQSwHTgHKa4oUP63-_Oy4qYIaZx1F4-O_b6yz7s_JqHbYX4doKKVbPK1AZ-naM5BLQqrCtxipL1UPpHQ/s200/menorah_bagel.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>This is a Menorah bagel we made as a Hanukah snack. Our little one is allergic to eggs among other things, and there aren't that many traditional Hanukah foods she can have. But I just wanted to point out that a little out-of-box thinking can turn the plain snack of bagel and carrots with some dip into a unique, festive (ok, maybe not so festive, but attractive) dish. I think it will also work for kiddo's Birthday. :-)mamalyahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10817211658840099763noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1791072449786248151.post-73262241531914610302010-11-30T14:28:00.000-05:002010-11-30T14:28:10.501-05:00Very easy holiday cards<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0veRAAlSpha26tlZcPnyXDaT7Gqa5gVJ-Wb8sWBcktBy1Hxh16w5KGSujNlaCwg2d9zdvx0EqhRgVUANV1P7CpcXFOac7fsGw3UGgTAm69tgmO0fxFgiJg_RUZXdqpSrYyjPOUqBdmgs/s1600/draw.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0veRAAlSpha26tlZcPnyXDaT7Gqa5gVJ-Wb8sWBcktBy1Hxh16w5KGSujNlaCwg2d9zdvx0EqhRgVUANV1P7CpcXFOac7fsGw3UGgTAm69tgmO0fxFgiJg_RUZXdqpSrYyjPOUqBdmgs/s200/draw.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>Here are two simple ideas for Holiday cards your 3-5 yo can make with minimum help. Another hidden benefit of kid-made card is that they are so cute you don't have to write a message! A simple <i>"Happy New Year"</i> scribbled by your preschooler is more than enough.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijc4VS2uixIco1LJ9hC0W8grAHCR3X52ZTSK17b7BuTnEFx1MHvZjQjU7NAzQkYirvqgN8Vd4y6tb2nLkIplu0FC6n66GuLYxc_sYPAPYhEa1MJbJXxKu-kpzi-AZQrzLpz1ZJ4OQcB_g/s1600/card.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijc4VS2uixIco1LJ9hC0W8grAHCR3X52ZTSK17b7BuTnEFx1MHvZjQjU7NAzQkYirvqgN8Vd4y6tb2nLkIplu0FC6n66GuLYxc_sYPAPYhEa1MJbJXxKu-kpzi-AZQrzLpz1ZJ4OQcB_g/s320/card.jpg" width="203" /></a></div><br />
Draw (or have your child draw) a simple tree shape <i>(a triangle over a small rectangle)</i>.<br />
<br />
Cut construction paper <i>(scraps left over from some other project are perfect)</i> into tiny pieces, the smaller the better.<br />
<br />
Starting at the bottom of the tree, apply glue row by row, put the paper pieces on, apply more glue, keep going until you're done.<br />
<br />
Draw a tree-topper or make one from paper pieces.<br />
<br />
Scribble a short note inside the card <i>(write it on a piece of paper so your child could copy it)</i>.<br />
<br />
Make as many cards as you need. Mail them to friends and family.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgb2R5jk1aupJESe4pnH-4GfS-3ogJZvT4MzZHgsfMTkeSJ3UIbm5PWJzMIfAQXhiwScxMgFu4yxL6QsaEQUsBS6eIlg6zhscfjxcUF-cADcduSJ45BJED3UL5TNtztdmraDANSOSvduKg/s1600/snowman+cards.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgb2R5jk1aupJESe4pnH-4GfS-3ogJZvT4MzZHgsfMTkeSJ3UIbm5PWJzMIfAQXhiwScxMgFu4yxL6QsaEQUsBS6eIlg6zhscfjxcUF-cADcduSJ45BJED3UL5TNtztdmraDANSOSvduKg/s320/snowman+cards.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><br />
And here are the cards we made last year <i>(<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: normal;">with</span> almost-4-yo.)</i>.<br />
<br />
Scribble a snowman (or a Xmas tree). Use the stick-on foam mosaic pieces to decorate it.mamalyahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10817211658840099763noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1791072449786248151.post-92084968064880498022010-11-29T15:45:00.000-05:002010-11-29T15:45:40.764-05:00December calendar templateWow, is it December already!? Where did the year go?<br />
<br />
If you came here looking for a calendar templates, this is your lucky day. Lots of snowflakes.<br />
I promise to put some easy ideas for Holiday cards. We're working on them now.<br />
<br />
<object data="http://viewer.docstoc.com/" height="250" id="_ds_64143009" name="_ds_64143009" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" width="330"><param name="FlashVars" value="doc_id=64143009&mem_id=6011833&doc_type=pdf&fullscreen=0&allowdownload=1&showrelated=0&showotherdocs=0" /><param name="movie" value="http://viewer.docstoc.com/"/><param name="allowScriptAccess" value="always" /><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true" /></object><script type="text/javascript">
var docstoc_docid="64143009";var docstoc_title="Fill-in calendar December 2010";var docstoc_urltitle="Fill-in calendar December 2010";
</script><script src="http://i.docstoccdn.com/js/check-flash.js" type="text/javascript">
</script><br />
<span style="font-size: xx-small;"><a href="http://www.docstoc.com/docs/64143009/Fill-in-calendar-December-2010">Fill-in calendar December 2010</a></span>mamalyahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10817211658840099763noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1791072449786248151.post-51928329402344308292010-10-29T18:23:00.000-04:002010-10-29T18:23:48.816-04:00November calendar templateHere's the link to November template. Enjoy!<br />
<br />
<object data="http://viewer.docstoc.com/" height="250" id="_ds_58785540" name="_ds_58785540" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" width="330"><param name="FlashVars" value="doc_id=58785540&mem_id=6011833&doc_type=pdf&fullscreen=0&allowdownload=1&showrelated=0&showotherdocs=0" /><param name="movie" value="http://viewer.docstoc.com/"/><param name="allowScriptAccess" value="always" /><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true" /></object><script type="text/javascript">
var docstoc_docid="58785540";var docstoc_title="November 2010 fill-in calendar";var docstoc_urltitle="November 2010 fill-in calendar";
</script><script src="http://i.docstoccdn.com/js/check-flash.js" type="text/javascript">
</script><br />
<span style="font-size: xx-small;"><a href="http://www.docstoc.com/docs/58785540/November-2010-fill-in-calendar">November 2010 fill-in calendar</a></span>mamalyahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10817211658840099763noreply@blogger.com0