Seasonal Fun in the Elementary Classroom
Teaching about the seasons and holidays in your classroom can be fun AND meaningful! One way we like to connect holidays and seasons to our lessons is through the use of picture books, so you’ll find we mention trade books a lot.
Check out these blog posts for ideas and activities to help you integrate holidays and seasonal fun into your classroom.
How to Plan an Exciting St. Patrick’s Day Thematic Unit
Planning St. Patrick’s Day activities for your students has never been easier! Check out these ideas for activities, bulletin boards, and more for planning your next thematic unit.
Unlocking the Magic of Leap Year in the Classroom
Leap into the magic of Leap Year with our creative and educational ideas for kindergarten and first-grade classrooms. Discover hands-on activities, engaging books, and delightful crafts that make learning about Leap Year fun and memorable. Seamlessly integrate Leap Year into your curriculum with age-appropriate math, science, and writing tips. Download free resources and embark on a leap-tastic journey of simplicity and joy in your classroom!
Animal Research in First Grade Is Perfect for Spring Lesson Plans
Easter is a time when many people think about rabbits, and it’s a great opportunity to teach young children about these fascinating creatures. But instead of just focusing on the Easter bunny, why not take the opportunity to delve deeper into the world of rabbits and learn about their unique characteristics and behavior through animal research?
One Is a Feast for a Mouse: A Thanksgiving Tale and Helpful Ideas Students Will Enjoy
This fun cumulative Thanksgiving story of One Is a Feast for a Mouse becomes a bit of a cautionary tale when a little mouse quickly changes from grateful to greedy.
What Could Make November Read Alouds More Fun Than A Turkey For Thanksgiving?
A Turkey for Thanksgiving by Eve Bunting has been one of my favorite Thanksgiving picture books for many years. My students have always been engaged by the story and love the surprise ending.
Turkey Trick or Treat in Search of the Perfect Classroom Halloween Costume
This silly series by Wendi Silvano is a first-grade favorite and Turkey Trick or Treat is a great read-aloud choice to add to your Halloween week lesson plans!
The Little Old Lady Who Was Not Afraid of Anything A Classic Halloween Read Aloud
If you have ever taught on Halloween, you know the excitement to come can be very distracting. The Little Old Lady Who Was Not Afraid of Anything is a perfect read-aloud to combine movement and keep students engaged.
Click, Clack, Boo! A Tricky Treat Read Aloud for Classroom Halloween Fun
Halloween stories don’t have to be scary. Doreen Cronin has written one with the barnyards friends of Click, Clack, Moo. Farmer Brown’s pajamas are sure to bring a few giggles too!
Room on the Broom Fun Rhyming Read Aloud Halloween Alternative
Although Room on the Broom doesn’t mention Halloween, the main character is a witch, so it fits in nicely with your October read-alouds.
How to Use Google Earth to Travel the World this Christmas
Are you looking to add a little more technology to your lessons on Winter Holidays Around the World? Google Earth is the perfect tool to use when “traveling” around the world!
Thanksgiving Activities and Resources We Think Your Students Will Love
Teaching about holidays can be fun, but they are also required. At least they are in Texas. In early elementary, we talk about the origins of customs, holidays, and celebrations celebrated in the community, state, and nation. Among those holidays is Thanksgiving. Today I’m sharing some Thanksgiving activities and resources you might want to add to your lesson plans.
3 Steps to Getting Started with Elf on the Shelf in Your Classroom
Elf on the Shelf has been a well-known tradition since 2005. But have you ever considered adapting it for your classroom? We all know that as winter break approaches things can get a little crazy in the classroom. I found using an elf helped our class stay positive and on track through December.
9 Children’s Books to Read This Year When Celebrating Veterans Day
Veterans Day is on November 11th every year, regardless of which day of the week it falls on. This holiday is a great opportunity to discuss all the branches of the military with your students, as well as the duties and sacrifices of our veterans.
12 Books to Use in Your Elementary Classroom to Discuss September 11th
Many early elementary teachers question what is appropriate to share with their students about September 11th. Here are some things to think about when preparing for talking with your students.
Take a Closer Look at Purposeful Close Reading Today
Close reading involves reading short pieces of text multiple times. As your students become more familiar with the text, they will begin to analyze the content and author's purpose through text-based questions and discussion. This reading activity gained popularity in...