ZINGO!

ZINGO!

Playing board games not only brings the family together creating memories to be cherished but teaches many valuable skills, academically and socially.  We introduced our first "board game when my son was a little over 3 years old and it was Candyland.  It brought back so many fond flashbacks from my own childhood.  It was amazing how quickly my son picked up on the concept of getting first to the candy castle.  Now at age four, he is really into games and it is so much fun to play with him.  He received Zingo by ThinkFun for his birthday and it was an instant hit.  Some of our other favorites include Memory (There are so many versions to choose from so pick a theme your child likes.  Be sure to start with just a few cards/matches and add more as your child becomes more confident and is ready for a challenge) and Hi-Ho Cherry-O by Hasbro.

What are your some of your favorite games to play with your kids?

http://www.scholastic.com/resources/article/the-benefits-of-board-games

Love Bug

WORK IN PROGRESS...

You've Been Bitten By MY Love Bug.  Happy Valentine's Day!

Supplies: popsicle sticks for the body, pipe cleaners for the antennae, construction paper to cut small heart for the head and two larger hearts for the wings (color your choice) and any fun decorations you have around the house such as glitter, stickers, buttons, etc... and white glue.

Love Bug Assembly Line

Today we started our Valentines...it will take a few days due to train and truck distractions.  If your child is really into crafting this is a perfect craft.  However, we completed TWO Love Bugs today and have one week to decorate the remaining ten needed for his classmates.  Wish us luck!  :)

First 2 completed and drying in the sun.

In time for Valentine's Day

Today was my son's preschool teacher 1/2 birthday and the class had a little celebration to let her know how much she is appreciated and loved.  Each child brought in a special card to hand her.  Needless to say, the teacher was touched by their kindness.
This card could be used for Valentine's Day, grandparents and anyone we love!

Supplies:  red non-toxic paint, paint brush, white and red paper, and WET WIPES
Directions:  Pour some red paint on a paper plate and paint child's hand, one at a time.  Wipe hands immediately.  Once paint has dried, cut out in a heart shape, leaving a white border so you can write a special message around the edge.  Then glue on red paper and cut around in a heart shape again.

Importance of Music

This is a great article that shows the importance of music.  Children love music and it helps with their mental, physical and social development.  

http://www.babycenter.com/0_music-and-your-toddler-or-preschooler-ages-1-to-3_6549.bc