tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-81981529192309671382024-03-19T01:54:16.442-04:00creating & teachingErin Lukashttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13288204747041235248noreply@blogger.comBlogger561125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8198152919230967138.post-41606293327381346282020-02-22T10:51:00.001-05:002020-02-22T10:55:12.176-05:00Work to Earn Schedules!<div style="text-align: center;">
I am really excited to share this new idea with you!</div>
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<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Visual-Earn-Schedule-Cards-5136769#show-price-update"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="720" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pFasTgqXo7g/XlE_C8o1mRI/AAAAAAAAKhQ/dsfi2W6JCW8yCW1fkoXUVdgOKBK8mcOGQCLcBGAsYHQ/s640/Slide1.jpeg" width="640" /></a></div>
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When I push in to my students general education classrooms, I felt like I was lacking something. I love routines, expectations and consistency and I know kids thrive off of it too. Working with my students had definitely become routine. When I entered, they mostly went to the table(s) we worked at in their rooms without me even asking them to, but I needed more.<br />
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I wanted a schedule for them to follow for our activities, but I wanted to include their earn in it too. I thought of the token board I include on my visual support folders, but I don't have any students using a visual support folder right now so I knew that wasn't going to be the best fit.<br />
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Then it happened. Everything aligned and my brain clicked!<br />
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I can turn a token board into a schedule by including a check off flap!<br />
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I printed them out for all of my students on colored card stock-- color coded for each of my students. I ordered mini clipboards in color as well to clip them on. This part is 100% optional, but I actually love it. I fold the flaps behind the edge of the clipboard while we are working and the clipboards help keep the earn schedules from getting bent and tattered in the buckets on my cart.<br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qvK3llnrkJQ/XlFAZNRPtkI/AAAAAAAAKhc/JSG01LSjJpYeVWxb3l9n8nd75SHDDTTxQCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/clipboard.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1027" data-original-width="1500" height="219" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qvK3llnrkJQ/XlFAZNRPtkI/AAAAAAAAKhc/JSG01LSjJpYeVWxb3l9n8nd75SHDDTTxQCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/clipboard.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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This is a perfect set up for doing push in services or pull out services, but I wish I had thought of it sooner when I had my own classroom! I could have totally used this idea for different parts our daily routine with some of my students.<br />
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It's a great way to chunk the day up into assigned tasks. Maybe your student earns a break after 2-3 transitions of your day. Simply print the earn schedule for 2 or 3 and use your schedule cards to represent the check off, and visual present the earn (break) to your student.<br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lgTvUbQqmM0/XlFGDm24u8I/AAAAAAAAKho/TDdNYYjlABADhEegu_XjRtnbPJNIn_cHACLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/workcard.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="841" data-original-width="1127" height="476" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lgTvUbQqmM0/XlFGDm24u8I/AAAAAAAAKho/TDdNYYjlABADhEegu_XjRtnbPJNIn_cHACLcBGAsYHQ/s640/workcard.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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AND after much trial and error, ha!, I was able to create these so that if you print your boards double sided, the check mark is included for you when you fold up the tab. When I first made these for my students, I didn't take the time to figure that out, I was too eager to try this idea out! So I ended up using a sharpie to draw check marks on. So glad I could get this to line up and work-- it's going to be a huge time saver for you! Simply follow the directions included in your purchase for set up!<br />
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Regardless of the number of activities you print your board out for, they will all be the same size and will fit on the mini clipboards. {I only had a yellow clipboard at home with me when I snapped these photos!}<br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5KBpCBqLRnA/XlFNUwLwWCI/AAAAAAAAKh8/0fm_afbg_gUZV6m8rf49bR-mhf6Z_Vc_gCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/earncardclipboard.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1125" data-original-width="1125" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5KBpCBqLRnA/XlFNUwLwWCI/AAAAAAAAKh8/0fm_afbg_gUZV6m8rf49bR-mhf6Z_Vc_gCLcBGAsYHQ/s640/earncardclipboard.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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Another thing I wanted to make sure I included were some picture cards to get your started. There are some options included for earns to use and options included for possible activities your students might be doing/have to do. There are blank squares included if you need them to add something or you can obviously use any existing photos you already have in your classroom!<br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yhOukVI2s1E/XlFMgZkdhVI/AAAAAAAAKh0/oSMnWB-3tXoZbaZAmAOkj8T5rVP0pRofQCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/picturecards.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1125" data-original-width="1125" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yhOukVI2s1E/XlFMgZkdhVI/AAAAAAAAKh0/oSMnWB-3tXoZbaZAmAOkj8T5rVP0pRofQCLcBGAsYHQ/s640/picturecards.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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If this resource seems like it would help you in the classroom or during your push-in/pull-out services, <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Visual-Earn-Schedule-Cards-5136769#show-price-update">{click here}</a> to head to my TpT store!<br />
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<img src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6_5NNxyTU5Q/WVrhTTVa4jI/AAAAAAAAFeQ/dAucqucXnRc_Rb2uh0FGxSVigYudeVURwCLcBGAs/s1600/PostSignature-1a.png" />Erin Lukashttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13288204747041235248noreply@blogger.com28tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8198152919230967138.post-39585243561567392412019-12-10T22:05:00.000-05:002019-12-10T22:05:04.997-05:00Stocking Stuffers for Babies!I feel like a great deal of people either in my life personally, or that I encounter on social media either just had a baby or had a baby about the time I had Greyson.<br />
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I'm having so much fun with a little one over the holidays as I'm sure you are too. Now, I know, especially depending upon the age, you might not be planning to make a big deal out of Christmas and that's ok! I'm having fun with it and really enjoyed selecting stocking stuffers for Greyson this year.<br />
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He'll be turning one shortly after Christmas so I tried to focus on a combo of upcoming things he will need along with some other fun toys too.<br />
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See what's on my list for stocking stuffers for babies 10-12 months!<br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">*this post contains affiliate links*</span></div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SPA9G7X0S0Q/Xe8B1LA1bnI/AAAAAAAAKgA/zxBno9hdirAfyRNcgj6jSCZj38UqhfqmwCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/Slide1.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="720" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SPA9G7X0S0Q/Xe8B1LA1bnI/AAAAAAAAKgA/zxBno9hdirAfyRNcgj6jSCZj38UqhfqmwCLcBGAsYHQ/s640/Slide1.jpeg" width="640" /></a></div>
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1. Bandana bibs<br />
My favorites are Copper Pearl. They have the best color and pattern combos, and you get 4 bibs for $20. The quality is great and your babe is sure to be styling! I've linked the Christmas pack featured above <a href="https://www.copperpearl.com/collections/bibs/products/baby-bandana-bibs-jolly">{here} </a>but I highly recommend you check out the full selection!<br />
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2. Grabease Utensils<br />
As we are introducing more and more finger foods to Greyson, not too far away will be the time to start offering utensils and giving him the opportunity to learn. <a href="https://amzn.to/2RCwgvD">These are perfect</a> "first utensils" and they come in a million color choices!<br />
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3. Skip Hop Selfie Phone<br />
How adorable is <a href="https://amzn.to/2PyejM1">this</a>?! It's marketed 6 months+, but it got some pretty big smiles out of Greyson on a Target trip recently. They can see their reflection, "filters" pop up on the screen and there's music too!<br />
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4. B*Tat Toy Keys<br />
We know most of our little ones are NOT falling for the fake keys, remote, phone, you name it. But what I love <a href="https://amzn.to/36nlOw3">about these</a>, is honestly the metal feature! Baby may just think they have the real thing!<br />
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5. Long Sleeve Bib<br />
You'll drive yourself nuts over the selection of long sleeve bibs available on amazon. As mentioned above, we're encroaching the territory of more and more self- feeding and I'm ready to be prepared! Long sleeve bibs will hopefully come in handy. I love that <a href="https://amzn.to/2LJ6UIA">this one</a> features a pocket for catching dropped pieces and easily Velcro's in the back.<br />
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6. Happy Baby Puffs<br />
I always loved getting a sweet treat in my Christmas stocking and while our little ones are too young for candy, Greyson is likely to turn into a puff the way he puts <a href="https://amzn.to/2PzzXzt">these down</a> now a days. He surprisingly LOVES this strawberry and beet flavor too!<br />
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7. Fat Brain Dimpl<br />
We actually already have <a href="https://amzn.to/2LK3Coq">this toy</a> so it won't be in Greyson's stocking this year, but if you don't have it- get it! This is always tossed in the diaper bag when we're going out somewhere, or handed to him in his high chair. It's easy to clean, can even be tossed in the dishwasher and Greyson loves popping the bubbles from side to side. Oh, and biting them too.<br />
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8. Smile Frida<br />
It's time for that first toothbrush! Greyson is cutting tooth number 3 as I write this and pretty soon some nighttime brushing will be part of our routine! I like that <a href="https://amzn.to/2Yz2Qju">this one </a>has an angle and two sides of bristles to get both sides of the tooth easily.<br />
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Have you recently found some great stocking stuffer ideas? Share them with us in the comments!<br />
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<img src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6_5NNxyTU5Q/WVrhTTVa4jI/AAAAAAAAFeQ/dAucqucXnRc_Rb2uh0FGxSVigYudeVURwCLcBGAs/s1600/PostSignature-1a.png" />Erin Lukashttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13288204747041235248noreply@blogger.com32tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8198152919230967138.post-17366455355426731492019-11-23T11:31:00.002-05:002019-11-23T11:48:13.280-05:00Push-In Special Ed ServicesI've been getting questions asking me how things are going with my new job position and I thought I'd share some details!<br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">*This post contains Amazon affiliate links.</span><br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZUU0p_-aqY8/XdlY43QZQhI/AAAAAAAAKe0/PF_SerzVqlsj3A1LeZqxpQpnm4J7MRaNwCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/pushinservicespost.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1254" data-original-width="1322" height="606" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZUU0p_-aqY8/XdlY43QZQhI/AAAAAAAAKe0/PF_SerzVqlsj3A1LeZqxpQpnm4J7MRaNwCLcBGAsYHQ/s640/pushinservicespost.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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First and foremost, I absolutely LOVE it. It has definitely been an adjustment for sure, as things are much different than what I was doing while teaching in Delaware, despite my job title being exactly the same.<br />
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In Delaware I had my own classroom and all of my students were on an IEP. In Maryland, I am working with pre-school (3 year olds), pre-k (4 year olds), and kindergarten. All of my students are in inclusion settings, and all of their services are push in. I have 2 students who require 1:1 support in their inclusion settings so they have an additional adult with them all day. I create my schedule to push into their classrooms to provide the services listed in their IEP. If you looked at my weekly schedule I actually over service my students, but this makes up for times when I may miss seeing them due to a training, my absence, a meeting, etc.<br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jmYbcO0zA_E/Xdla22FImOI/AAAAAAAAKfA/xr0Jb8UU0FMYWCu55KM5H2vYkGFCJZbwgCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/SchedulePicture.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1143" data-original-width="1585" height="287" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jmYbcO0zA_E/Xdla22FImOI/AAAAAAAAKfA/xr0Jb8UU0FMYWCu55KM5H2vYkGFCJZbwgCLcBGAsYHQ/s400/SchedulePicture.png" width="400" /></a></div>
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You can see in my schedule that I also provide coverage for breaks and lunch for the 1:1 adults with my students. I obviously blacked out names, but the blocks are color coded by student that I am working with.<br />
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I also want to point out that my pre-k students have a 1 hr nap in their schedule. The 3 year old class and the 4 year old classes have their naps at different times. There is a chunk in my day that between specials, lunch, nap, and recess, I have no students I can service. One nice thing that works out, is when I provided lunch coverage for a 1:1, I'm able to do my push in services with that student at that time.<br />
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Another tid bit-- I have my own instructional assistant (IA)! This was a surprise to me! All special ed teachers have their own IA. In the higher grade levels, IA's provide the push in services for students, while the special ed teacher provides the pull out services. Since none of my students have pull out services at this time, both my IA and I push into the classrooms. I am free to determine how I need to use my IA and create their schedule.<br />
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As I started falling into a groove with my services and what my students needed, I realized I was constantly juggling materials around and carrying so much stuff with me. Working with the little guys requires a lot more manipulatives and not always items that are easy to carry. Not to mention, once I walked out of my office, I never walked back by it, so it was eating into service time to have to drop off materials and pick up different ones.<br />
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Enter, <a href="https://amzn.to/2quWB3L">the cart!</a><br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td><span style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><a href="https://amzn.to/2quWB3L"><img border="0" data-original-height="1500" data-original-width="1500" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dX8hWRz0FrY/Xdlb7TpLyBI/AAAAAAAAKfI/vGNn7pHInQ8s2MYq2HM2aZqWIXtw1WYAgCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/cart.jpg" width="320" /></a></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.800000190734863px;"><a href="https://amzn.to/2quWB3L">Cart photo taken from Amazon.</a></td></tr>
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I'm surely not sneaking up on anyone when I'm pushing this through the halls, but I needed something, so I ordered this cart on <a href="https://amzn.to/2quWB3L">Amazon</a>. I wanted something stable, large enough to hold my stuff, but not too large. This was $65 so a bit of a splurge, but worth it!<br />
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I ordered containers from <a href="https://www.reallygoodstuff.com/group-colors-for-6-chapter-book-bins-with-dividers/p/165167/">Really Good Stuff</a> to put on my cart that would allow me to organize the materials I needed for each student. I wanted something that allowed me to continue color coding student materials and something that would be easy to carry into each classroom.<br />
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<tr><td><span style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><a href="https://www.reallygoodstuff.com/group-colors-for-6-chapter-book-bins-with-dividers/p/165167/"><img border="0" data-original-height="645" data-original-width="645" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Tkzz5hPwYKE/Xdlc6C4x55I/AAAAAAAAKfY/2Ywdf4psnTErbbJiCFGgVNxO4_6NbE9gQCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/bins.jpg" width="320" /></a></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.800000190734863px;"><a href="https://www.reallygoodstuff.com/group-colors-for-6-chapter-book-bins-with-dividers/p/165167/">Photo taken from google search.</a></td></tr>
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Putting my cart together has made things so much easier for me! I keep my binder on top where I have my data sheets for each student that I take into the classroom with me, as well as, additional copies of any data sheets I use, or leave behind for the classroom teacher in a hanging file bin. This is nice when I'm out in the classroom and realize I'm out of something or the teacher says they are in need of more copies. I can give them a few from here so they have what they need right away and I can get them more during my planning. I also decided to be a little extra and decorate my cart too.<br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XFnuxaWghq4/XdlduBomTpI/AAAAAAAAKfg/Hlo9ZrJu46EgTdVsXY7CPMIEtpe0prabwCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/cart1.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1095" data-original-width="1564" height="448" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XFnuxaWghq4/XdlduBomTpI/AAAAAAAAKfg/Hlo9ZrJu46EgTdVsXY7CPMIEtpe0prabwCLcBGAsYHQ/s640/cart1.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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Thankfully there are places I am able to leave my cart nearby the classrooms I go in that allow it to not be in the way in the event of a fire drill, or just kids passing by in general.<br />
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When I go into the classrooms I am partially assisting the students with what they are working on with their general education teacher, and also having them complete the activities I have brought with me for data collection on their goals. I swap out materials in their bins every 2-3 weeks, but we are still focusing on the same goals every time I come in. For example, if we are working on counting with 1:1 correspondence we might practice with counting books for a week or two, and then I'll switch the materials to mini erasers and ten frames.<br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kwFvWR4tfF0/XdlethlJkZI/AAAAAAAAKfs/POfxoFl8jZEoE9IsTgomIsvMt82oapCdACLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/cart2.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1120" data-original-width="1600" height="448" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kwFvWR4tfF0/XdlethlJkZI/AAAAAAAAKfs/POfxoFl8jZEoE9IsTgomIsvMt82oapCdACLcBGAsYHQ/s640/cart2.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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There are definitely times that I miss having my own classroom. This has been an adjustment for me for sure, but if I am being honest, the stress level is lower. I have students with significant needs and the idea of not being with them all day every day took some time to get used to. Spending 30-45 min in their inclusion rooms at a time, 1-2x per day, really made me feel like I wasn't doing enough for them at first. But I had to remind myself that I AM doing more for them than their IEP requires and the benefit they have from an inclusion setting is as equally important.<br />
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For my higher needs students, I also have conversations with their general education teachers about their lesson plans to provided accommodated materials for the student that allows them to participate with what their general ed peers are doing as much as possible. This part has been hard. It didn't immediately happen. It took some time to see what the student can do, how they function/participate, get the proper support in place, not to mention finding the time to talk with the gen ed teacher isn't always easy either as our planning doesn't overlap. My goal is to make this happen more frequently and become more streamlined, but it's a work in progress.<br />
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For those of you who have been providing special education push in services at the pre-k/kindergarten level for some time, what are your tips and tricks? I'd love to hear your suggestions!<br />
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<img src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6_5NNxyTU5Q/WVrhTTVa4jI/AAAAAAAAFeQ/dAucqucXnRc_Rb2uh0FGxSVigYudeVURwCLcBGAs/s1600/PostSignature-1a.png" />Erin Lukashttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13288204747041235248noreply@blogger.com17tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8198152919230967138.post-8346229295039043762019-11-02T20:18:00.002-04:002019-11-02T20:21:29.028-04:00Letter ID Fun!I'm living in disbelief as to how ANY of these teacher bloggers with kids of their own keep up! I certainly have not found that groove yet, but that's okay!<br />
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I am LOVING my new school and teaching position and feel like it's exactly what I needed at this time, when I didn't even know it.<br />
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I am falling into a groove with back to school now that it's <strike>mid October </strike>early November and I'm super excited to have a resource to share with you too!<br />
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While my title as special education pre-school teacher hasn't changed, it looks different. I do not have my own classroom, and I provide all push in services to my students in their general education setting. What I do with each student on my caseload looks vastly different. I also tacked Kindergarten onto the end of the job title too!<br />
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I have a student working on letter identification AND 1:1 correspondence while counting. This student is also slightly difficult to motivate at times and this resource is a result of combing all of that!<br />
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<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Letter-Identification-Cards-with-Earn-4991788"><img border="0" data-original-height="1254" data-original-width="1368" height="586" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MDSP7WpSCnY/Xb4bWdOU1yI/AAAAAAAAKek/CjPsB-jhcmA4EOVj-Wzx7ALbZYhB9E6_wCLcBGAsYHQ/s640/LetterIDCoverPhoto.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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I made half page pages that feature the letter on the top, with either a 5-frame, 10-frame, or 20-frame below. Each time the student correctly identifies the letter we place a sticker in the box. At the end, we flip back through and count the stickers in each frame.<br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hzFapdO7y7w/Xb4bekAvB7I/AAAAAAAAKeo/HyrFbaO9_kQeh22p9NBuMFuA-OXQfb06wCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/LetterID2.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1010" data-original-width="1010" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hzFapdO7y7w/Xb4bekAvB7I/AAAAAAAAKeo/HyrFbaO9_kQeh22p9NBuMFuA-OXQfb06wCLcBGAsYHQ/s400/LetterID2.png" width="400" /></a></div>
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We're practicing our letter ID- tailored to whatever letters you are working on with your student at that time (just print those pages).<br />
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We're providing an incentive for the student with the stickers. You could also use mini stamps, bingo daubers, or any other kind of marking that fits in the boxes and would be of interest to your student.<br />
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And we're practicing our 1:1 correspondence when we go back to count our stickers!<br />
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We're focusing just on five frames right now and this student has shown a lot of progress with accuracy and counting objects 1-5. We are still doing additional counting activities up to 10, and when I feel the student is proficient with 1-5, I'll change the letter ID cards to a 10 frame. Our annual goal is to be counting sets up to 20, so we're making progress slowly, but surely.<br />
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With my new position of doing push in services, I feel like I'm trying to cram so much into our time together. I love that this activity allows me to hit multiple goals at once, and provides me with the data/progress right in front me!<br />
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I could extend this activity further to target additional Common Core Standards by requesting the student to write the number(s) we've counted as well.<br />
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Is this a resource you could see yourself using in your own classroom? Click <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Letter-Identification-Cards-with-Earn-4991788">{here} </a>or click the cover photo above to head to my TpT Store!<br />
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<img src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6_5NNxyTU5Q/WVrhTTVa4jI/AAAAAAAAFeQ/dAucqucXnRc_Rb2uh0FGxSVigYudeVURwCLcBGAs/s1600/PostSignature-1a.png" />Erin Lukashttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13288204747041235248noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8198152919230967138.post-79815534752525906222019-03-13T18:04:00.002-04:002020-02-23T08:00:07.721-05:00Ideas for Infant Activities #whenteachersHAVEbabies <div style="text-align: center;">
Okay, I think I got all of the cobwebs down from this blog! If you don't follow me on my Instagram or Facebook pages perhaps you are unaware, but we had a baby!</div>
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A precious baby boy on January 11, 2019 that I have been fortunate to be spending my days at home with. However, as an early childhood educator I think it was inevitable that my brain would start to compile "teaching ideas" or ideas for "awake time" with little, little babies! I also quickly realized that what I assumed everyone knew, they didn't. Lots of moms in my babies group were frequently asking each other, "What are you doing during awake times?" "We sing, but what else can we do?"</div>
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I quickly started sharing suggestions for activities that we were doing, or books/items we had purchased and we’re using. I also compiled an Amazon list with suggestions for books or activity items for young babies.</div>
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It's SO easy to find stimulating activities for babies at this age if you think about it.</div>
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Sounds, lights, just walking around your home even is a stimulating activity for them. </div>
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Babies initially see black and white first and then red is the first color they pick up. Anything with a high contrast or large bold patterns and shapes will get their attention at this age. </div>
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For us our awake time could include looking at books— ones that are mostly black and white designs like these below. </div>
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The 3 are from Amazon and the mini board book set is from Usborn books. (So keep you eyes open the next time you get an online invite 😆) </div>
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We also enjoy mirrors! There’s lots of fun floor mirrors available on Amazon and I regret not registering for one. We ended up with an extra car mirror so that’s what’s we’ve been using. I also love this Eric Carle book that features a mirror! </div>
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As the weeks go by we start to enjoy/tolerate more and more time on our activity mat too! </div>
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I especially love this one because it features black and white with some color and it also lights up along the top. </div>
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There’s a play mat by a company called Lovevery that I totally recommend if you play mat budget is on the higher end. It’s simple and clean design is very appealing and if you're struggling to know what activities to do with your little one you can sign up for a box that they send monthly that may include items compatible with their mat. Seems like a super awesome concept that I never saw until after baby was born! </div>
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bgadUAVGNeGnM2RMEbjqpB51iBjGVsTR+3VCcNSNUmXeIBrXZQJt9WvRdn2WrufhKL3uLnFplxMk+J2pWrXpNe0tcAWuBDgbgg2IIUdCg2m0MY0Na2waBAG9ggHJJJKAShFNCcCgCSsPjlfENoOdhmNfVkENdpBcJMSJgHSdt9EeJ8VdmNGk0Fx8OZ2gJ6DWNfRVezTsZkd9rEODvAfBJEXnJaJ09eiXTo1eB6HNtLjbrv2Rbp4ssw/f4huUsYX1ABcZQSYE8hMTaV5zxXjZxNV1VneU2kABuYtNpE+E3XpuNxndtByOfJiB8rj+JUmGvVORurQBlFhlGlrLLxUtMdXFs7P6TOCyOLVtLr/wk/4dY6sa/d53upZHFwcXODTNjJ3JtHU8l20xa1iR7WXHdm6nc1mtpi1RwDxrMAwb8rn3XUvxDXFzmOa5p3BDhoJgjqo8PNSgR/U03m1Ult0Hvd16lUa9Qb6fzmpaj+do+VVqVPbZbs89GVwntPRfMVGgEkCXNLHjMRAJ+raQQPULXp4Gk7+78Ekkt+7J1gm48iqOJ4RTqMexs08wcMzABGaJgEWuAbRdS8A4M6jT7t9Z9Ugkte4QQ20NNzOnrKwjCaZs5RaNKnhstiIIPurWQKNr3MgPEjY/vt+CuUg1w8N+mi1Uk9jJpmdisPOhVRuAHXr1WzUpdOnkoqlLKBmPlGo6KXSIRiYjAEjwjyESfRR4bsu0uD6zo3yNNz0LtvIX6hbtJ8Dwi3OCfeFlcYq1IsfCeWvqspeY0i9LNBuOptimyBFoGg8+vyrzGCJOq86Zie7qBjbzH7wu44e8lklVxvzUzTLBaVJMukhQOPQm4FgT+CfUd5XTm0ydDHpK2m2lsc65J2OHX2P6I1KltCfYfBKb3bv6/j90HUql/GP9PyufXk6xf0/LJ2FlB/5YnyapKOn05elvyUIbU/qHt8qSnmm5Gm3Pmpg3q4f+v2GxKgjKBXQQIpsoppQAKxe1eEFSiCcS7DtY7M57ZuIIy2InXTyWysvjnB2YoU21CcjH5y0WzeEgNJ2F1IPNMPiC/vj9tqtFNhdTzPcHVSNGxnsTyEr0Tso9zsJRLiSS0kkkknxGJJ1sjjuzmEqlrn0W+AACC5gyjQENIBA6q/hHsLGmkWlkQ3LGWBbwxaLICRJJBQCZKUECUBmP4cPtAqg/1EjrET8q4/Up33vIfj/ssbs7gcTS704isKhe+WRmMNANzOhMiwsIGqsqE5ybVlziXF6WGaDVJEzAALjA1JA2EhYzsJTfUe4iSTrmdBsItMaLa4zwylWaBUbMabG+o8jA9ln0i0Of4BAdlAuIDYbA9l5vj8eScdKdbrv2fY6cWWGNJq73siZTDfpEEggkawdRKs8L4UMLTyBznA38UeEwBFvJSYptGows+gmBMdZ15J2JqtptpUy4kk5G9YaXH4aVbwHh5You53fTsVyeIlkelLb8fgbUZPxrqnNbB180HHXfqpqTL6eS7zATBadp0V2kwbKNzD6alTNsLgg/HuhBMLyD/uo6LQ0Wtf8A3SY8kDY8/JVcZxGmwEueBN5nfceXVQ6JSb4NRr9is92NoP8ACHsdefqEKHEVyaNWXCO7fFxu0gXWNhBlEN0PrKylOjSELOkI9PLZVcSwOBkz5iflVaGJyZQdCYjQAc+itVq5AMRZaRkpIpKDi9zg+NsyYlsNJ8rmbLuOHkhjcwymAdlSZQFR+d0SPIH9leqVDpIM7QqxjUnIvLJcFEst8RUeLFQEPa6w1bt5kbp+HomZ05/spRS5nW2kee56KMkVNaTOjJOJxEg5hA84PR0pn22q2Jq/ek2nYeHbw+XNXMXw6m2Xh7wSbCRlnyj4VYYfqCvPliyQ23+bGiT3I2cWeNama8/R8a6fqpKeLqOa7+1FhmAsHkDlvFj7KanSptuRmOw+6OpO6lw1Km8E903doIZeIixi26lYpuO8vqydEqss8KxBeyXbGJ52B/NXFHRpBjQ1ugTyu/DGUcajJ2+5ApTSiU1aARWVx+pigxpwjWOfm8QfEZYNxLheYWoVXxL3jLkaDe8mICkHnnaHEY0ljccHU6BMO7kNLT5kOMnoT1AK7rg7aQoUxQM0svgNzI6zeZlW6tMOBa4Ag2IIBBHIg6qLC4ZlJgYwZWtmBe0kmBPmgJEkklAHyglKSAxMHjcQ7G1qZpkYdrG5ahaRL4bOVxs4SXi2mX3tUcSK3eMbmYQ0tzHUEgibHUawrbdB/NVBjKbqlMim/KTo4HlYiR/LJTbW+xeU1VqO9ft+TN4Nw1+FoPbUq5xmkaw0Bt4ncwSsNnFnhzop5mFxImzhe/PddNxPiNKgKVOtVAdUOVsz4iBeeQuBJ5heedoeMVKWJrU6bWBrXkCxnQG9432AV4Yfazp01X1OfxrzTSmtm369x0ruKU3CLgn7pF/iy0uGY3vmlrmjNTAc067EAjkdR6rzlvaKoPqYx3W4/Aroux/alj6ooGhldVMB4cXSQCYcCBAgHTn6q/8AZxxJtI58L8Q5rU1XuOwAnXdXKLdI1VajzjordJukarI7C0zRJrss8oJA8tR5ptN0Ih9x8eaA5B/EHZ3QXhpJMODbaHz3IXOdosZDTclziR6ax8hdzW4IwOe8GcwmDqLkm+9yuQ7RcBc5rMhBc0umbZpy/Iyhc0scuTsjli9kbVRjW4TMRf8Asv8AuaqdPHQFo4mlOGI/wfBH6LJOHOyykaY1tuWq2LLoaPqcQB62XXY5gJM2/mvkuY7M4Co2sHvhwGm0dTO8afsusxemaPpuRzEXHtPsrY7psyzcpENJmUX/AJ6qalhmuM6fH4KBjoOWZGx6FX6LYH8j9lqnZzsf9ngWWZj8YxolxAj3tyG62JXCdqRNRoBhz3/UT9LAQTra8j3VM03GNotCOp0aHEsexzYDxMggbn+SqzKb4kOHuufxVctxDWX+mDmABmSbRtEe61vthjLPMfK89eJySSc1TLTk4Oo8FylXeDlJB95WpSxVWQGtBAEQD8xl8lkcNogkkuDYuTv6DddBQr0mCGvbpJuJIAkk+l1rjbyPeVfqUlklLkuMdYTrAlFR4eu17Q9hkHfysnkr048bFBIFJAqQIppSTSgAU0pxKYUJDKSakgHpIJFCChRpufScyrbMHM8NjlIyg9Hfsq/AeFU8FQc3OS0F1RzjYCw0aNBAFucqTjArZIofVmufDIaZJIzW1geUqzSpk02sqw4loFQxYmPF+aiD82l38S8py0tLh9DMxuFw2OFKqRnFOpLHXbBDoc0g3glotvAVfifYvDVqrqrnVAXOcXw4QT0kGNFp8JANIZKTqYkkNeA0xOpaCSJsYMHmApnOeOq0U9Mm4FHqcVGfT06OYrf8P8KdKlcf5mfmxW+z/ZGhhKhrNc97gCAXlvhB1gNAvtJVvhGANJ9Rwr1H03wRSqEvNN0mSHuJJBECOm6t0sUX52lhbfICfvAzJ0tYddUlmlw3yT7NbuPQlw7ZsNbHoOauCnHt5fgoMK208/4FNUNreX5KCo6By+T+qU8h/PdR4mrkYXRoNFkjD16nidULZ0AJaPYFc+bxCxyUVFyfZF4Y9StukauIPQ/z1WBjMOc31vjpln5CecZVouDapzMP3jqOs7+qdXqeI9PdTizxyp1aa5T5RMsbgx1Qf2XqOXMqlSJBuPW0K3ijFEdXNH/cVzvaTHd03Mc5FvoJa7eTmHlp1WTpRujaLldI6rhTmgwYzbuM+wvotes+ADrcfiF5pgO0eV7KNQyXtDqVY2FRroLA4fdfBI5SNphegcMxIyjvXROxtPkDc+itDdbFJcjqLfAByiPaFZpVS3f0WYcYQSIsCQNvIqwysd49DP5JVFTV+02lcr2g4WKoBayHDeQeREjlb4C3qdHNfQ6yfEVn1q7gSM0wd2geiyzK1vFv4V9y2NO9jnMN2fcXF7oDiAGm4iLXtJtA/gV3h3DQHE1Zs53hg3gm5I28lbGNJdE6+kLUo0XmfEN4t1lUeGKpxTfy/KLZE7TkW6bacCGj/T+yfLY0t5H9EynnG4/m6Lu82I/m63UpJf4/T+TGkSU4i2nlCJTKOaPEQTzGicV0RdpWVEmpFBSBFNKJTSgAU0oppKEiSQRQDwlKEoFCBOZKVOlGplOCKASBCKKArVqAOlioGOykZhpv+oV+EH0QQpBHQAyNFtAnPNvb8Qm08FAgOPoQI9wUHYPm5/uz/wBVYqRYqjnAbmgZmOMR4g1wdl8iQJ6SN0+pVVd+CH9T/wDVT/8ARVsThWwfE7/Uz8glK7IBj3Me0teAWnUFZOJxXi15/gEsZTaAfEZ82kLFc0uq0qeYxUeWkixhtKpVMHYnu49SqyoujoOOYsUqTPC92ao1oDGPqOPge76WAnRpWYCyuybObJFxMHQhzTcHoYK1+O8TOHw7nsaHVTlbSZP1PM7T4gBLiBrlXN8HwmJpNdicY55NWrSp92X+IueYDnAWA08IiAIjZYabgbprVuTYnsyzEOZ3jSxrGFjcpA3ERYjLGax5rpcJhWUhAGupNy7qSbk+aYxpItrbpc3t01TvsdQ6kfKzhjbVdDScow+I3Emd4VjBVJtNxsOSY3A1BYBp8yf0QpYCpmBcCANS0j8NVu4bUc2rc2cO83HW3lER7z7qjU4e59QmYaYJPXcAc7T6qy0HmVJnTTapkxm47or4jgjCAWEtcN5JB8+XorPD2Pg5xlIMCDrz6EfunUqplWlKgk7Qc21TKTxWG7ImxIOnIxMeaLatU7UyZGjnEAbk2v8AnKtEoAqqx0+X8ygSUJSKatAFCUkCgEU0olNKABTSnFMKEiSQlJASJJqIQgcE5NCKAKRSCKAIQ73xAJEwqReZnqpBqByZUdYef7qNlYFNfViN9VYoUuO4t9Oi99MS4C06C8FxG8CTHRcNhTUfSfWqVXPJcfE4w1oAFgNGiZt5LusU4m2U/BWJieDCoIdTBAMgEwJ5j5V9dQcaCjc029jm+DY+o972SXU2tnNyMiAOkT7LQY0F7dQQ4EHlPhMeYJHkVq0+DFoysYxg5C3rbdMZwZ7XBxcwgOB+9NiDCw3o2lJXsHtTgqdeh9ne4M7wZmugnK5kFpttJuNxK5jhPDsZSpNbUqBzaT+8oMh7wHBjmAhpynL4jDTF7wN+zx+BdVe0tIAaN53PTySdgKhiw9CqpPTRNrVbK2HxpLc7hlc3k1xPIDKJJklb3Cy+o0PcWwSYAAMjzgHWVUoYEODRUbocwM3BAIkEEQYJWpg8I2kCG5oJmJBAJJJIA5kklVhjkpbuy08kWtkWKTBCkyhManytjAq16d/RQvpq45RuCgkhw7FYTJhGUAihKRQKACSRQQCQKUoFAIlNKJKaUJEUwpyYUAkEkkBIkEUkA4IwkkhAUQkkgI65sqZKSSEhBT5SSQCSSSQAlR1dPZBJQ+CUTUhupJSSUR4D5FKUpJKxA5tZw3KsUSTqUkkIJU1wSSUga5BpSSUARQlJJABApJIAIFJJANKCSSEgKYUkkAEkkkB//9k=" 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We have this soft book too that goes with the same collection of our activity mat. This is fun to prop up for baby to look at or stick in your diaper bag since it’s soft and easily portable. </div>
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-YyJ6Ku-eiJA/XJj9JYuUeKI/AAAAAAAAKcs/OrfVk5FXzKAaEPx5LkD0jIgtIhylS32BwCLcBGAs/s1600/infantact4.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1127" data-original-width="1130" height="638" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-YyJ6Ku-eiJA/XJj9JYuUeKI/AAAAAAAAKcs/OrfVk5FXzKAaEPx5LkD0jIgtIhylS32BwCLcBGAs/s640/infantact4.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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In our diaper bag I have these two toys that were a steal from Ikea! The black and white plushie mini blanket is great in the car seat and even though it’s not black and white, this soft book features simple bold designs of fruit with fun lift the flaps! </div>
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If baby starts to get fussy we simply switch up the activity, change our location, or change our sitting position. When none of those swap outs are working then I know we’re really done and probably ready for our next nap! </div>
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To see the Amazon idea list I put together for various infant activities just click the photo below! </div>
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<a href="http://a.co/iAUe9Bw"><img alt="http://a.co/iAUe9Bw" border="0" data-original-height="851" data-original-width="1213" height="448" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_xy6qPOgFLQ/XJkFsY7zM_I/AAAAAAAAKdA/gR7TiiH07V0Lv5_t2XtuYMJBk_OxADK5QCLcBGAs/s640/infantact6.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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I’d love to hear your feedback on whether or not you’d like me to feature more posts for infants or not! I have a few more ideas already and I’m sure will generate more as I go. </div>
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Let me know and let me know if you have any topics in mind! (Let's also keep in my mind that our little one is now 10 weeks old, and I started this blog post about 3 or 4 weeks ago! haha)</div>
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Erin Lukashttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13288204747041235248noreply@blogger.com73tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8198152919230967138.post-22375716767104344072018-09-03T13:10:00.001-04:002018-09-03T13:10:10.654-04:00What Does Meet the Teacher Look Like?Whatever you may call it, meet the teacher, open house, back to school night; there's lots of variations out there on name AND on what happens. <br />
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For me, it's always been about 1 hour in the evening PRIOR to school starting where families can come in, meet their child's teacher (kids come too!), they can see their classroom, pick up some materials and other information about the school year.<br />
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I've pretty much used the same tried and true resources for 7 years now and they make my Meet the Teacher night such a breeze to set-up and prep for. I wanted to share with you what this looks likes in my classroom and provide you with some resources for setting up.<br />
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First off, I don't do any formal presentations during my meet the teacher night. I know this is popular among older grade levels, but for me I don't think it's necessary. I have a lot of students for more than 1 year so I typically know quite a few of the families coming in, if they even come in again that year. Next, everything is so individualized for students needs that I just spend time going around the room and talking to each family while they complete a few small tasks I have set up and let their child explore the room. <br />
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When parents/families first arrive they approach the sign in table. I have them write their name and their child's name down and also fill out a name tag sticker. From there they are free to approach different tables as they chose, I do not have any specific order for them to follow. You can download my sign in page [for free] by clicking <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Sign-In-Forms-for-Meet-the-Teacher-Events-Spanish-Included-3337910">[here]</a>. It comes in English & in Spanish.<br />
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They aren't required to move to this table next, but I have a table set up with their child's folders. They are able to take their folder that night and inside of the folder they'll find a Welcome Packet that I have put together in addition to any paperwork I've received from the office. <br />
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My Welcome Packet can be purchased in my TpT store and is editable to suit your needs! You can find it by clicking <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Editable-Welcome-Packet-for-Back-to-School-3333798?aref=ldr7xmwn">[here]</a>.<br />
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The next table they might find is our Student Information Packet. I'm thrilled if I can get families to fill it out while they are there and leave it, but it is a lot of information too so I do give them the option to take it and return it in their child's folder on the first day. I've been using this packet for several years now. This is also available in my store, with a few different page options to meet your needs. This however, is NOT an editable file. To find it, click <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Child-Information-Forms-1425932">[here].</a><br />
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As they flow around the room, they'll find the supplies sorting station! We have all crayons, glue, scissors, etc. that the students will need so our supplies list is a little different. We ask for things like paper towels, tissues, cleaning wipes, and snack donations. Our paper towels at the sink are TERRIBLE for spills, and at this age, spills happen. So I ask for donations of those. We don't get any tissues from our main office so those are always on my supply list too.<br />
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Once they've sorted their supplies into the correct buckets I have a "wish list" table. This is where I'll write down something that would be nice to have donated to the classroom if they wish. This is NOT mandatory at all! If they'd like to donate something they simply pick up that heart and take it with them. Last year was the first year I did this and I had a positive feel from it so I plan to do it again this year.<br />
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And lastly, before they leave I have some type of treat for them to take with them! Last year a friend of mine who makes cookies had these amazing 'paint your own cookie' that I purchased from her. She doesn't live locally, but was visiting a nearby resort area so I met her to get the cookies. I'm kind of sad this years treat won't be nearly as exciting as her cookies were, but that's okay! (Seriously if she lived closer I'd be buying her cookies ALL. THE. TIME.)<br />
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The signs you've seen in each picture at the tables are also available in my TpT store. You can edit these to say what you need them to. I love how these just sort of give the families the information they need at each table if I'm not able to be right there. I found the plastic sign holders at Walmart and they are just sitting on their side, versus being vertical. Click <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Editable-Meet-the-Teacher-Classroom-Signs-3338402">[here]</a> to find them in my store. <br />
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<img alt="{Editable} Meet the Teacher Classroom Signs" class="ProductImages__mainImage" src="https://ecdn.teacherspayteachers.com/thumbitem/-Editable-Meet-the-Teacher-Classroom-Signs-3338402-1531656068/original-3338402-1.jpg" /></div>
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We don't have our meet the teacher until September 10th (Pre-school starts September 11th) which is why my brain is probably thinking it's okay to share this post now, meanwhile a majority of you start with your students tomorrow!<br />
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Some of these ideas could come in handy for a back to school night later in the year, such as the signs to set up around the room, or even the use of the sign in sheet! It's never too late to send home the student information pack either! Are these pretty similar ideas to what happens at your meet the teacher event? <br />
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<img src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6_5NNxyTU5Q/WVrhTTVa4jI/AAAAAAAAFeQ/dAucqucXnRc_Rb2uh0FGxSVigYudeVURwCLcBGAs/s1600/PostSignature-1a.png" />Erin Lukashttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13288204747041235248noreply@blogger.com62tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8198152919230967138.post-36636667727274816202018-08-17T09:11:00.003-04:002018-08-17T09:14:36.433-04:00File folder OrganizingI'm going to assume that if you are here, you must use file folders in your classroom! They are one of my favorite resources and I LOVE the ones <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Teaching-Special-Thinkers-Gabrielle-Dixon/Category/File-Folder-Tasks-258065">Gabrielle from Teaching Special Thinkers</a> creates. She has an amazing variety of skills and themes available in her TpT store.<br />
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Over the years of prepping file folders I've accumulated quite the collection. This past school year I decided that instead of putting my folders away with my theme buckets I wanted to always be able to access them throughout the year. This makes it easy to share with other teachers as well, something I love to do!<br />
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I started with sorting my file folders out by skill level and labeling the bins with post it notes for quick organization. Then throughout the school year I added more skills, and was finding myself having to dig through each bin when I was trying to full for a specific theme, such as winter or spring.<br />
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I ordered <a href="https://amzn.to/2PbMgkJ">these month stickers</a> off of amazon and once I got past how they picked all the wrong colors for each month I used them to place on the sides of my files for what months I would use them in.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://amzn.to/2PbMgkJ">link to purchase these is an affiliate link</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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Not all of my files need month stickers. Some skill focuses are more generic and can be used any time of the year.<br />
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When I first bought my month stickers, I did a video from the classroom explaining how I was going to use them. I however did not actually label them until this summer. #lifehappens I've included the video below in case you're interested.<br />
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I did have to buy more bins, because once I sorted them by skill I was up to 3 sets of ROYGBIV. No worries, I have a large shelf to store them on.<br />
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I'm excited to take these back to school in a week (and get them out of my dining room) and have them organized and ready to go for the year.<br />
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If you are interested in grabbing these labels you can find them in my TpT store! I've attached mine on the front of my bins with velcro dots. This way I can easily move things around as needed. The cards are 3x3 so if you were using the adhesive squares from the Target Dollar Spot they would fit inside perfectly!<br />
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The pocket squares that often come on the bins already, are smaller than these cards are. A few of my bins have them UNDER the labels I added. I don't like how small they are. I love to fill the space with the label.<br />
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The pack currently includes 36 different labels available, and a list is included on the TpT listing. Click <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/File-Folder-Skill-Labels-for-Organization-4002016">[here]</a> or click the photo to find them! </div>
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<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/File-Folder-Skill-Labels-for-Organization-4002016"><img alt="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/File-Folder-Skill-Labels-for-Organization-4002016" border="0" data-original-height="792" data-original-width="612" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Uk6HxGpSVCA/W3bJZBXfY5I/AAAAAAAAKZo/bsQol-vun7sXBYIuis5Xb7pT2z-OJtnMwCLcBGAs/s640/Slide1.jpg" width="494" /></a></div>
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Now, to finish prepping my lowercase matching, capital matching, and sorting file folders! </div>
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<img src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6_5NNxyTU5Q/WVrhTTVa4jI/AAAAAAAAFeQ/dAucqucXnRc_Rb2uh0FGxSVigYudeVURwCLcBGAs/s1600/PostSignature-1a.png" />Erin Lukashttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13288204747041235248noreply@blogger.com29tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8198152919230967138.post-23950497422165738382018-02-19T18:39:00.000-05:002018-02-19T18:39:32.890-05:00Valentine's Workboxes {February 2018}!So far so good with being on a roll with my seasonal workbox posts! <strike>I
even pulled out my February stuff ahead of time so I could share with
you in advance. Look at me getting all ahead of schedule! </strike>😆 <<< you guys, I was realy optimistic with myself when I started to draft this post back in January.<br />
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Some
day I will be that person. Someday. But today is today and we're
already into February and you've probably already put together boxes for
the month without using my ideas. There's always next year. Just look
to find the items on clearance this year!<br />
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These
ideas should be pretty easy/simple for you go find either the same
materials for or at least similiar ones. The last few boxes of this post
are actually ones that I made this year, so I know that you can find
the exact items out and about.<br />
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This month I have 12 work box ideas to share with you.<br />
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The
first box includes these counting cards that I found on TpT last year.
Quite honestly I do not remember who they are from. If you know, please
let me know so I can give credit! I love these because we can practice
1:1 correspondence and fine motor with the clothespins. <br />
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Up next we're taking it homemade-- my favorite for workboxes honestly.<br />
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These
were simply hearts that I printed/coped on construction paper. I cut
them in half with a number on one side and dots for counting on the
other. Easy and cheap!<br />
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This
next one is also homemade. I wrote numbers on some hearts on
construction paper and added conversation heart erasers-- again, super
easy. I cannot remember where I found these erasers, I've had them for a
while, but I want to say maybe Dollar General?<br />
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Next are two options from <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/File-Folder-Heaven">File Folder Heaven.</a> They are simple vocabulary match-ups. An easier one with colors and color words and then another with pictures of items.<br />
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<br />
I
always like to include a simple put in task with my seasonal boxes too.
So I can continue to give my students working on this level some
variety too. This one is simply a recylced almond can (well cleaned!)
with a hole in the lid and more of the conversation heart erasers that I
had.<br />
<br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-G3Yeg2D7nzI/WotYWFm-bkI/AAAAAAAAKX0/EQDLSP5on3cMzyPA8c3n8JeAfBZjv8URACLcBGAs/s1600/Slide06.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="540" data-original-width="720" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-G3Yeg2D7nzI/WotYWFm-bkI/AAAAAAAAKX0/EQDLSP5on3cMzyPA8c3n8JeAfBZjv8URACLcBGAs/s640/Slide06.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
I
wasn't able to score any of this years seasonal erasers from Target for
Valentines. I'm pretty certain my Target just never got any. I had
these heart ones in my February theme bin so I added them to my ice tray
counting box.<br />
<br />
If you've missed my other posts, I keep
this tray in a box, but then switch out the erasers each month or so to
keep it fresh and not boring.<br />
<br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UfDtZ-Wfnb8/WotY7jYmY-I/AAAAAAAAKX8/5FJR_7ICmfUxMEPyVh6g6SGrmkTw8kgfQCLcBGAs/s1600/Slide08.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="540" data-original-width="720" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UfDtZ-Wfnb8/WotY7jYmY-I/AAAAAAAAKX8/5FJR_7ICmfUxMEPyVh6g6SGrmkTw8kgfQCLcBGAs/s640/Slide08.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
This next one I came up with a few years ago. It's simple, but what I like most about it is how you can differentiate it.<br />
<br />
Keep
it a simple color sorting activity for some. Pink clothespins into pink
container, red to red. OR differentiate and focus on fine motor. Have
students match the colors, but clip them around the outside of the pail
versus just dropping them in.<br />
<br />
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-T9Xg8i4N0I0/WotZRkB_soI/AAAAAAAAKYA/Zcod1lrW_9swWoMRbiMpMeZY1oAW3VAgACLcBGAs/s1600/Slide07.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="540" data-original-width="720" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-T9Xg8i4N0I0/WotZRkB_soI/AAAAAAAAKYA/Zcod1lrW_9swWoMRbiMpMeZY1oAW3VAgACLcBGAs/s640/Slide07.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
NOW
let's get into all the new ones for this year! I found some awesome
supplies in Michael's at the beginning of the month and had fun creating
some additional boxes this month.<br />
<br />
This one might be my favorite new one! I found these fun little ducks and knew I could come up with something for them. <br />
<br />
I
wrote numbers on top of them and then wrote numbers AND number words on
this plastic board I had available. The board is from Oriental Trading
and is actually from a pack of library dividers I had purchased. They're
sturdy, but thin enough that I was able to cut with a guillotine paper
cutter. <br />
<br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-IS0Vko4sMEs/WotZmQlkXPI/AAAAAAAAKYM/UaxlqAbtOLwnKfhU1Cz93ugGg-AEyUWugCLcBGAs/s1600/Slide09.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="540" data-original-width="720" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-IS0Vko4sMEs/WotZmQlkXPI/AAAAAAAAKYM/UaxlqAbtOLwnKfhU1Cz93ugGg-AEyUWugCLcBGAs/s640/Slide09.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
Unfortunately
my velcro dots didn't stick to the ducks. I even tried hot gluing them
on and they still came off. I ended up scraping the velcro idea, but I'm
sure there is a better adhesive option out there if you'd like to keep
them with velcro.<br />
<br />
If you're interested in the library dividers I described you can grab them <a href="http://www.orientaltrading.com/library-dividers-a2-13679434.fltr">{here}</a>.<br />
<br />
I
loved these small little pails I found. A color sorting and matching
activity seemed ideal for them so I picked up some pom-poms in the
colors.<br />
<br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YGml1ZeI-TM/Wota_p5x6mI/AAAAAAAAKYc/6Sagwn8i2789Q0jNlkHaYn5aDHC4OmI4ACLcBGAs/s1600/Slide11.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="540" data-original-width="720" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YGml1ZeI-TM/Wota_p5x6mI/AAAAAAAAKYc/6Sagwn8i2789Q0jNlkHaYn5aDHC4OmI4ACLcBGAs/s640/Slide11.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
You can make this more challenging by sticking to smaller pom-poms and adding tweezers too!<br />
<br />
In
the same pack I got the pom-poms were pipe cleaners too. I picked up
some large beads over the bead section and picked out the colors I
wanted. I ended up looping 1 bead to the end of each pipe cleaner to
help the students better keep the beads on, but this has been some great
fine motor practice for us!<br />
<br />
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<br />
Lastly,
this one is from materials found at Wal-Mart and Hobby Lobby. Someone
shared about the small heart containers from Wal-Mart on instagram. I
picked up 2 packs (honestly don't know why I got 2 because the other
pack is still sitting on my desk...)<br />
<br />
Anyway, I had
originally used the same conversation heart erasers used above, but I
didn't have too many left over for it. Then I found these foam stickers
at Hobby Lobby in the exact colors i needed.<br />
<br />
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<br />
I
didn't include any of my shape sorting cards in these, but , they make a
great work box that you can easily differentiate. If you were hoping to
catch those, I have <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Chocolate-Strawberry-Shape-Sorting-2388817">Chocolate Strawberry Shape</a> Sorting and <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Love-Bug-Shape-Sorting-2387388">Love Bug Shape Sorting</a> in my TpT store! Click the text or the photos below to find them :)<br />
<br />
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<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Chocolate-Strawberry-Shape-Sorting-2388817"><img alt="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Chocolate-Strawberry-Shape-Sorting-2388817" border="0" data-original-height="792" data-original-width="612" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-k4GSdo35x4w/WoDgxE4_2YI/AAAAAAAAKWs/BZB5CakuJHogI8bWa2v47ZI_VNygKUxXQCLcBGAs/s320/Slide01.jpg" width="246" /></a><a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Love-Bug-Shape-Sorting-2387388"><img alt="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Love-Bug-Shape-Sorting-2387388" border="0" data-original-height="792" data-original-width="612" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-oCzSm8fOtu8/WoDg1hReGNI/AAAAAAAAKWw/O0AGcQc9F-QIc_HvEZjrpODMtc_nM252ACLcBGAs/s320/Slide01.jpg" width="246" /></a></div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
As always, thanks for reading my post! I hope to see you back for March boxes!</div>
<br />
<br />
<img src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6_5NNxyTU5Q/WVrhTTVa4jI/AAAAAAAAFeQ/dAucqucXnRc_Rb2uh0FGxSVigYudeVURwCLcBGAs/s1600/PostSignature-1a.png" />Erin Lukashttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13288204747041235248noreply@blogger.com323tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8198152919230967138.post-38274560904525243232018-02-11T15:44:00.002-05:002018-02-11T15:44:33.054-05:00The Jacket I Wear...<div style="text-align: center;">
..of course you know the rest! IN THE SNOW!</div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-33qGY8NP__c/WoBbJRWcLrI/AAAAAAAAKVg/2cDlIF9eXLk7_Iw5BeLUy1i3Ce9_91ihwCLcBGAs/s1600/jacket.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1121" data-original-width="969" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-33qGY8NP__c/WoBbJRWcLrI/AAAAAAAAKVg/2cDlIF9eXLk7_Iw5BeLUy1i3Ce9_91ihwCLcBGAs/s640/jacket.png" width="552" /></a></div>
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<br /></div>
For me this is one of those books that goes way back. Not way back to my childhood or anything, but way back to the days of student teaching.<br />
<br />
I think it's fair to say this was the first ever sequencing activity that I planned, prepped materials for, and taught to a class. I loved it. Sequencing quickly became a favorite of mine.<br />
<br />
I have literally been using these materials with this book for 8 years. EIGHT! Honestly, I have no NEED to update them, but couldn't help but think about the adorable clipart I saw that would be great for updating my resources.<br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lL0KRg1TUZ0/Wn-clMQlTrI/AAAAAAAAKVQ/PllmRrsODTo2z2eyKoy64obJyTv2sJNKgCLcBGAs/s1600/jacket3.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1202" data-original-width="902" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lL0KRg1TUZ0/Wn-clMQlTrI/AAAAAAAAKVQ/PllmRrsODTo2z2eyKoy64obJyTv2sJNKgCLcBGAs/s640/jacket3.png" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
I made the original cards by blowing up images on the copier, coloring them in, gluing them to card stock and then laminating them. -- those were the days. haha!<br />
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-mhylAgvaIVw/WoBbRmzOWII/AAAAAAAAKVk/1-bpIDrHGKUEHzT9SYCKzAkNoJZ-pXv8wCLcBGAs/s1600/jacket4.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1202" data-original-width="902" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-mhylAgvaIVw/WoBbRmzOWII/AAAAAAAAKVk/1-bpIDrHGKUEHzT9SYCKzAkNoJZ-pXv8wCLcBGAs/s640/jacket4.png" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
While putting together new sequencing cards I also created a smaller set of sequencing cards to use with a paint stick or something similiar, a storyboard for students to follow along with, and a black and white activity book for tracing and coloring. -- great for pre-readers!<br />
<br />
While reading the book out loud with my students they will each get a copy of this story board to follow along with. Students simply use their finger to find the picture that matches the page we are on.<br />
<br />
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-72dsDLlZFCY/WoCqsszaw1I/AAAAAAAAKWI/hPKFNAiFPGkTd6-ilZQc7cX1TJ6-Z172QCLcBGAs/s1600/jacketpreview1.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1127" data-original-width="1126" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-72dsDLlZFCY/WoCqsszaw1I/AAAAAAAAKWI/hPKFNAiFPGkTd6-ilZQc7cX1TJ6-Z172QCLcBGAs/s640/jacketpreview1.png" width="636" /></a></div>
<br />
As the story repeats itself students can follow along to read with me! The book is already great for this with the pictures in place of the text on the pages, but I love giving my pre-schoolers something to hold while sitting to read. Especially for books that may be a little longer. <br />
<br />
I will use the large sequencing cards to lay out as we read as well. These can act as a large cue for the students to find the matching picture on their story boards too.<br />
<br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-m8LsbyarzjE/WoCq1Ao50LI/AAAAAAAAKWM/4NqQvMmfeAAL5VyFx3j-8D4PmYWVtKkzACLcBGAs/s1600/jacketpreview3.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1127" data-original-width="1126" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-m8LsbyarzjE/WoCq1Ao50LI/AAAAAAAAKWM/4NqQvMmfeAAL5VyFx3j-8D4PmYWVtKkzACLcBGAs/s640/jacketpreview3.png" width="638" /></a></div>
<br />
For the small sequencing cards these are great if you are working on re-telling with any of your students. Simply add velcro the back and use a paint stick or another surface for students to place the pictures on as they re-tell you the story.<br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2XQFCbUujzM/WoCq7ZWvTHI/AAAAAAAAKWQ/K-zdkTyg5qIGzCCBTAjBrHCLyiOKeXuDgCLcBGAs/s1600/jacketpreview2.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1127" data-original-width="1126" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2XQFCbUujzM/WoCq7ZWvTHI/AAAAAAAAKWQ/K-zdkTyg5qIGzCCBTAjBrHCLyiOKeXuDgCLcBGAs/s640/jacketpreview2.png" width="638" /></a></div>
<br />
The black and white activity book can be great for small group activities or to simply put in your writing area for students to work on and take home to share the story with their families!<br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-z9uAKI_tL2k/WoCrBnARtLI/AAAAAAAAKWU/ATIbkWDiAUwnjdu4KXUuba3XwCZdMJ59wCLcBGAs/s1600/jacketpreview4.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1127" data-original-width="1126" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-z9uAKI_tL2k/WoCrBnARtLI/AAAAAAAAKWU/ATIbkWDiAUwnjdu4KXUuba3XwCZdMJ59wCLcBGAs/s640/jacketpreview4.png" width="638" /></a></div>
<br />
If this is a go to book for you during the winter you need to grab these resources! I've put them all together in one pack and with such easy prep it's a no brainer! You can buy this pack on TpT for just $3! Click <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Re-Telling-Aids-Jacket-in-the-Snow-3646469">{here}</a> or click the photo below.<br />
<br />
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<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Re-Telling-Aids-Jacket-in-the-Snow-3646469"><img alt="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Re-Telling-Aids-Jacket-in-the-Snow-3646469" border="0" data-original-height="612" data-original-width="792" height="494" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eOjlOScf6mw/WoBnGr_g-1I/AAAAAAAAKV4/cdHyPytZjYsSCIwPiKBV1rEqeft_nC8ogCLcBGAs/s640/Slide01.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<img src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6_5NNxyTU5Q/WVrhTTVa4jI/AAAAAAAAFeQ/dAucqucXnRc_Rb2uh0FGxSVigYudeVURwCLcBGAs/s1600/PostSignature-1a.png" />Erin Lukashttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13288204747041235248noreply@blogger.com52tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8198152919230967138.post-26505447115198749442018-01-05T11:38:00.000-05:002018-01-05T11:49:11.133-05:00Where Do I Buy Velcro {#SPEDtalk}So one of the MOST asked questions in the sped world is where do you buy your velcro? It's like we all think one of us is sitting on the secret to affordable velcro and we don't want to share it.<br />
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RpSl7lAV6NQ/Wk6U648S8UI/AAAAAAAAKS0/tdFc37fNS04evAdLMXZFhX_dGsf2repnACLcBGAs/s1600/buyvelcro.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="1070" height="430" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RpSl7lAV6NQ/Wk6U648S8UI/AAAAAAAAKS0/tdFc37fNS04evAdLMXZFhX_dGsf2repnACLcBGAs/s640/buyvelcro.png" width="640" /></a></div>
Unfortunately, that's not the case at all. I've just settled on the fact that "affordable" velcro is a magical non-existent thing. I have however discovered what I consider to be the "best deal" on velcro and is always my go to for ordering.<br />
<br />
First, I have some ground rules for velcro.<br />
<br />
- white/clear, the lightest you can find is best<br />
- dots. BUY ALL THE DOTS, but yes, sometimes strips<br />
- rough stays, soft travels<br />
<br />
That said, to each their own. BUT if your new to the velcro game I'd say take my suggestions. They are well shared with other teachers throughout the special education world in my opinion.<br />
<br />
Now for purchasing velcro I have one source and basically one source only.<br />
<br />
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<a href="http://www.feinersupply.com/"><img alt="http://www.feinersupply.com/" border="0" data-original-height="271" data-original-width="1518" height="114" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7v9zzUCeZNM/Wk6cj34po_I/AAAAAAAAKS4/3B-YBBvuZeMhX7j_mYULM1eSDbtif0THQCLcBGAs/s640/feiner.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
Based in Florida, they do offer local pick up or they ship anywhere with a minimum order of $50. Yes. I know that's a kicker, but I have an idea for that price so just keep reading!<br />
<br />
I always order the <a href="http://www.feinersupply.com/feiner-coins.html">1/2" velcro coins</a> in white. You have to order 1 roll hook and 1 roll loop. They are $16/roll so you're spending $32 for your velcro, but you're getting 1,400 sets of coins. The best part of the coins is obvious, but no cutting!<br />
<br />
If you still feel like $32 is a lot, don't worry. I've done the homework for you to make the comparisons and prove to you it is the best deal!<br />
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-IcaI13qK1PA/Wk6ndN7XUUI/AAAAAAAAKS8/IHRoujWsQiYoNhCC_QJlum3Q5L2XgoloACLcBGAs/s1600/velcoprices.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1171" data-original-width="1518" height="492" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-IcaI13qK1PA/Wk6ndN7XUUI/AAAAAAAAKS8/IHRoujWsQiYoNhCC_QJlum3Q5L2XgoloACLcBGAs/s640/velcoprices.png" width="640" /></a></div>
The option available on <a href="https://www.uline.com/Product/Detail/S-17145/Hook-&-Loop-Tape/Uline-Hook-and-Loop-Dots-Combo-Pack-1-2-White?pricode=WB0965&gadtype=pla&id=S-17145&gclid=Cj0KCQiAvrfSBRC2ARIsAFumcm90KA2RqjS7X2-D6IYK0U0j83fM3dz5gsun9m0NxiDwg26-DZedQSoaAs7lEALw_wcB&gclsrc=aw.ds">Uline</a> would be a pack of 200 coins. When you do the math to buy 1400 coins, you would have to spend $105. Yikes! That certainly makes Feiner a better option.<br />
<br />
The <a href="https://www.uline.com/Product/Detail/S-7849/Velcro-Brand-Tape/Velcro-Brand-Tape-Dots-Loop-White-1-2?pricode=WB0221&gadtype=pla&id=S-7849&gclid=Cj0KCQiAvrfSBRC2ARIsAFumcm_87qdZ2Upfq1atUMxxRTHSPG9OHyPaCBkumIhfya_WEN4dhbdxAOwaAoR3EALw_wcB&gclsrc=aw.ds">Velcro brand</a> above is sold via Uline, but specified to be Velcro brand. It is sold in a 1440 count, which is 40 more coins, but it's $56!<br />
<br />
The coins available on <a href="https://www.amazon.com/dp/B012EWJIXG/ref=asc_df_B012EWJIXG5325290/?tag=hyprod-20&creative=395033&creativeASIN=B012EWJIXG&linkCode=df0&hvadid=167152383254&hvpos=1o3&hvnetw=g&hvrand=10882575050138625025&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvqmt=&hvdev=c&hvdvcmdl=&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=9008106&hvtargid=pla-306523602431">Amazon</a> are by a brand called "VKey" and are actually slightly larger at 3/4" but they come in a pack of 250 sets. When you buy enough to compare to 1400, you have to spend $54. *NOT an affiliate link*<br />
<br />
I actually do order the Amazon option occasionally., especially because I can prime it and get it here faster than the Feiner order and it's $8.99 for a set of 250. It is for sure the best option if you need something quickly.<br />
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Bp79rrd9eWo/Wk6wgPzMBOI/AAAAAAAAKTA/rVdhXW4EpPIwhZv7SGsfFUE8BMm0aMz0gCLcBGAs/s1600/velcro.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="271" data-original-width="1518" height="114" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Bp79rrd9eWo/Wk6wgPzMBOI/AAAAAAAAKTA/rVdhXW4EpPIwhZv7SGsfFUE8BMm0aMz0gCLcBGAs/s640/velcro.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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Since Feiner Supply has a minimum order amount of $50, it might make them sound comparable to other options listed above.<br />
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If you are placing a single order just for yourself, you can double it and spend $64, but get 2800 sets of velcro coins.<br />
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Before I order, I'll send an email out to other teachers in my school to see if anyone else needs velcro. This is the PERFECT solution. We can all get a great deal on our velcro without breaking the bank.<br />
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If no one else needs velcro then I will order 2 sets. 1 set to take to school and 1 set to leave at home. This is also a great idea so I don't have to take materials back and forth when prepping.<br />
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I recently ordered strip velcro from Feiner supply too and it's also a great deal at $13.50/roll for a 25 yard roll.<br />
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So there you have it. The BEST place to buy your velcro is <a href="http://www.feinersupply.com/">www.feinersupply.com</a>, but I also included links for all the options just in case you like throwing away money. 😆<br />
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This post is also NOT sponsored in anyway. I just wanted to share that "secret" we all think each other is sitting on. <br />
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<img src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6_5NNxyTU5Q/WVrhTTVa4jI/AAAAAAAAFeQ/dAucqucXnRc_Rb2uh0FGxSVigYudeVURwCLcBGAs/s1600/PostSignature-1a.png" />Erin Lukashttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13288204747041235248noreply@blogger.com31tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8198152919230967138.post-2267400196686242592018-01-01T20:46:00.000-05:002018-01-01T20:46:34.021-05:00Winter Workboxes! {January 2018}<div style="text-align: center;">
It's time for another peek into my workboxes! I used to never switch out boxes seasonally, but my set-up this year is different and I realized how many materials I have readily available that make amazing work box tasks! </div>
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-IuVGwW7c3tA/Wkq9vUfYjnI/AAAAAAAAKRc/OnbXmBt4HdEXn2qYSpniUyzlUDxtWSGAACLcBGAs/s1600/winterbox.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="799" data-original-width="1159" height="440" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-IuVGwW7c3tA/Wkq9vUfYjnI/AAAAAAAAKRc/OnbXmBt4HdEXn2qYSpniUyzlUDxtWSGAACLcBGAs/s640/winterbox.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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I have 10 winter themed work box activities that I'm doing that are super easy to put together!<br />
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These first four are from <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Winter-Clothespin-Tasks-1631119">Teaching Special Thinkers Winter Clothespins Task pack</a>, except I simply added velcro instead of clothespins. </div>
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The first one is matching identical items, then counting snowflakes, missing number, and missing letter-- perfect variety! </div>
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The next box is actually meant to be cut apart into individual cards. For the sake of time I keep them whole. I've recently started to include a tracing work box to build extra pre-writing practice into our daily routine. These are from <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Tracing-Cards-Winter-Set-Fine-Motor-Skills-2269126">Creative Learning 4 Kidz.</a></div>
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-bznjkMxKw2U/WkrbdFeDQ1I/AAAAAAAAKR8/R4_AKwbB3_QyxFm6963F5NEwnpvOwtqzACLcBGAs/s1600/winterbox5.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1222" data-original-width="921" height="400" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-bznjkMxKw2U/WkrbdFeDQ1I/AAAAAAAAKR8/R4_AKwbB3_QyxFm6963F5NEwnpvOwtqzACLcBGAs/s400/winterbox5.png" width="301" /></a></div>
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The next two boxes are from one of my shape sorting packs. I will change these boxes again throughout the month. Right now they are snow globe shape sorting, but I have polar bear and carrot nose (snowmen) ones too. </div>
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<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Snow-Globe-Shape-Sorting-2296198"><img alt="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Snow-Globe-Shape-Sorting-2296198" border="0" data-original-height="1131" data-original-width="1106" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-GbaDzT-ZBRQ/WkrfUOBCHEI/AAAAAAAAKSI/LmbRE8XqojIKg-x1xanc-9fAEYsNT4aQACLcBGAs/s640/winterboxes2.png" width="624" /></a></div>
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This next one is my counting box. I simply switched out my target mini erasers in this one. One to one correspondence is a great skill to practice and by changing out the erasers each month we can keep it fresh!</div>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Yb-nxKEBGVc/WkrhpZPhZcI/AAAAAAAAKSU/SFvfHJ6X7qwfISqIDWl6muzQaNlrgM-vgCLcBGAs/s1600/winterbox8.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1223" data-original-width="923" height="400" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Yb-nxKEBGVc/WkrhpZPhZcI/AAAAAAAAKSU/SFvfHJ6X7qwfISqIDWl6muzQaNlrgM-vgCLcBGAs/s400/winterbox8.png" width="301" /></a></div>
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Lastly, are 2 activities that I had in my Winter theme box that I'm not quite sure where they came from, but they make great workbox tasks! </div>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-scmgza4MvuQ/WkrkJwS7TXI/AAAAAAAAKSg/KJY775vrcuMHkj23Hemj-pUj-pmPVRxLwCLcBGAs/s1600/winterboxes3.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="713" data-original-width="1106" height="411" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-scmgza4MvuQ/WkrkJwS7TXI/AAAAAAAAKSg/KJY775vrcuMHkj23Hemj-pUj-pmPVRxLwCLcBGAs/s640/winterboxes3.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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Whats in your workboxes? </div>
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<img src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6_5NNxyTU5Q/WVrhTTVa4jI/AAAAAAAAFeQ/dAucqucXnRc_Rb2uh0FGxSVigYudeVURwCLcBGAs/s1600/PostSignature-1a.png" />Erin Lukashttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13288204747041235248noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8198152919230967138.post-79622089357913433082017-12-30T13:27:00.000-05:002017-12-30T13:27:06.061-05:00Counting Books {Update!}<div style="text-align: center;">
Are you waiting for more counting books in your 10 & 20 frame counting bundles?</div>
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I've used some time this holiday break to get the next few months added to the bundle. You can now work on printing and prepping your counting books for the following months:<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">February: Heart Candy!</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rMpOwi9OoUg/WkKXShtcv5I/AAAAAAAAKPU/zSQF4rVOiRs9YNHuqyq6_dU5ATgK0SoZwCEwYBhgL/s1600/Slide01.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="612" data-original-width="792" height="308" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rMpOwi9OoUg/WkKXShtcv5I/AAAAAAAAKPU/zSQF4rVOiRs9YNHuqyq6_dU5ATgK0SoZwCEwYBhgL/s400/Slide01.jpg" width="400" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">March: Spring Flowers!</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">April: Raindrops!</span><br />
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-IknvlSC4Bac/WkZbvnrqwjI/AAAAAAAAKP0/hBR8R3DHif8NTUbNfyJssS-g7AkLuUVSQCLcBGAs/s1600/Slide01.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="612" data-original-width="792" height="308" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-IknvlSC4Bac/WkZbvnrqwjI/AAAAAAAAKP0/hBR8R3DHif8NTUbNfyJssS-g7AkLuUVSQCLcBGAs/s400/Slide01.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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You can buy the 1<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/10-Frame-Counting-Book-Bundle-3299770">0 frame bundle,</a> the <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/20-Frame-Counting-Book-Bundle-3299777">20 frame bundle</a>, or a <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/10-AND-20-Frame-Counting-Book-Bundle-3299804">bundle that includes them both</a>. I love using these counting books as assigned independent work or in work boxes. You can also buy them each individually if you're only interested in 1, maybe both, but not the bundle! :)<br />
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If you already own any of the bundles you can download a re-vised version for free on TpT, if you go to "my purchases" then sort by newly revised. <br />
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I like to try and keep the books in these bundles pretty neutral and not holiday specific. I.e. October was counting spiders, versus jack-o-lanterns.<br />
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I still need to create books for May, June, and July and I'd love your input on theme ideas! July will have to be something summery, since I want to avoid 4th of July themes.<br />
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If you are looking for some counting books that are more holiday specific I did recently add a 10 frame counting book and 20 frame counting book for Dental Health Awareness and Ground Hog Day. You have to purchase them each separately, but the Ground Hog Day one is FREE!<br />
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<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Dental-Health-10-Frame-Counting-Interactive-Book-3557834"><img alt="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Dental-Health-10-Frame-Counting-Interactive-Book-3557834" border="0" data-original-height="612" data-original-width="792" height="308" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TVR7VGy6WYE/WkZvrVPNheI/AAAAAAAAKQI/dR5jIbsjlzM-2cNgSAFS9cZ7DvMufb73QCLcBGAs/s400/Slide01.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Dental-Health-20-Frame-Counting-Interactive-Book-3557843"><img alt="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Dental-Health-20-Frame-Counting-Interactive-Book-3557843" border="0" data-original-height="612" data-original-width="792" height="308" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qHah0M5bsgs/WkZvtzwvg6I/AAAAAAAAKQM/kNAdipx7guspBGO3ojwpMVTcJoAWwSoZQCLcBGAs/s400/Slide01.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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...and these two are FREE! Just click the photos to download them. </div>
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<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Groundhog-10-Frame-Counting-Interactive-Book-3559704"><img alt="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Groundhog-10-Frame-Counting-Interactive-Book-3559704" border="0" data-original-height="612" data-original-width="792" height="308" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-CamrdHT3gmM/WkfJKHpOHBI/AAAAAAAAKQc/dq_lsU_HvEYxciVTbui4XClPE3n0pMl3QCLcBGAs/s400/Slide01.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Groundhog-20-Frame-Counting-Interactive-Book-3559612"><img alt="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Groundhog-20-Frame-Counting-Interactive-Book-3559612" border="0" data-original-height="612" data-original-width="792" height="308" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ykkQvcuDgn4/WkfJNXU3YqI/AAAAAAAAKQg/GXxlbxZN7kMeR7jK9ZVYN6NXx1bw5EB-wCLcBGAs/s400/Slide01.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Shew, that's a lot of counting books. You should hopefully be set for a while, but don't forget to let me know theme suggestions for May, June, and July! </div>
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<img src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6_5NNxyTU5Q/WVrhTTVa4jI/AAAAAAAAFeQ/dAucqucXnRc_Rb2uh0FGxSVigYudeVURwCLcBGAs/s1600/PostSignature-1a.png" />Erin Lukashttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13288204747041235248noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8198152919230967138.post-54154110083066223172017-12-23T09:38:00.000-05:002018-01-07T12:57:40.778-05:00Holiday Workboxes! {Christmas 2017} <div style="text-align: center;">
Excuse me while I pull down the cob webs from this blog. </div>
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If you're not a blogger yourself you really don't understand how time consuming putting together a great post can be. That my friends is why I end up blogging so little. HOWEVER I am posting on Instagram very frequently so please be sure to follow me there if you aren't already.</div>
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I'd originally taken the photos in this post to share on Instagram, but then I realized I could give you so much more information about each idea if I made it a blog post. <br />
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I filled up 8 of my workboxes with some holiday themed tasks that are pretty cheap and easy to assemble. Some of the materials I've used I found a year or 2 ago, but it would be easy to replace them with something similiar in the stores now.<br />
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I also realize I'm posting this at a time when most of you are probably already out of school. Tuck these ideas away for next year and shop Christmas clearance for items to use in your boxes!<br />
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This box is missing number with clothespins. I put 4 number strips in here, but I have more. The resource is from <a href="http://teachingspecialthinkers.com/">Teaching Special Thinkers.</a> I believe it's her <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Winter-Holiday-Clothespin-Tasks-1588406">Holiday Clothespin Tasks</a>. I love using clothespins tasks in my workboxes. They really help build those fine motor skills and there are so many different ways to use them.</div>
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-dESeK9EuqTU/Wj0fHcy7nsI/AAAAAAAAKNo/hv0jRL5yG0YHwMd2aETOtn4Klh0l8K8mgCLcBGAs/s1600/xmasbox2.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="912" data-original-width="690" height="400" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-dESeK9EuqTU/Wj0fHcy7nsI/AAAAAAAAKNo/hv0jRL5yG0YHwMd2aETOtn4Klh0l8K8mgCLcBGAs/s400/xmasbox2.png" width="302" /></a></div>
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The next box can be a little tricky for some of my students, but makes a good challenge for some others. They have to match the faces to the correct body. This really forces them to pay attention to detail. I found this resource from <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Creative-Learning-4-Kidz">Creative Learning 4 Kidz</a> on TpT. I love their stuff! </div>
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-hRV3p3uyT7s/Wj5boE-SI1I/AAAAAAAAKN4/qEUgZykla8k2m_y3y7EBRVQ4Ag1-4urlwCLcBGAs/s1600/xmasbox3.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="911" data-original-width="691" height="400" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-hRV3p3uyT7s/Wj5boE-SI1I/AAAAAAAAKN4/qEUgZykla8k2m_y3y7EBRVQ4Ag1-4urlwCLcBGAs/s400/xmasbox3.png" width="302" /></a></div>
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What are you doing with your target erasers? This box is great because each month I can just switch out the erasers that I'm using. Students have to count them out and put the correct number in each spot on the tray. Super easy to set up and super cheap! I think ice cube trays are 2 for $1 at Dollar Tree.</div>
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This one is also from <a href="http://teachingspecialthinkers.com/">Teaching Special Thinkers</a> <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Winter-Holiday-Clothespin-Tasks-1588406">Holiday Clothespin Tasks</a>. I love this one! Students have to put the clip on the picture that matches the big picture. Matching identical pictures in VB-MAPP anyone? </div>
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I have 2 boxes that have 3 shape sorting cards in them each. These particular cards are from <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Creative-Learning-4-Kidz">Creative Learning 4 Kidz</a> too. What I love about using shape sorting cards in work boxes is that you can easily differentiate. You can do 2, 3, 4 different shapes. You can pick shapes that are drastically different, or ones that are more alike to make the task more challenging. </div>
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I can't remember where I found this resource, but it was in my Christmas tub of stuff. I've just recently started adding some dry erase stuff to our work boxes to give additional fine motor practice. So far the students have done pretty well with them. Just something quick and simple. Nothing too difficult to be frustrating. Almost all of my students get OT so I try to make sure they each do a dry erase box at least 1-2x/week. </div>
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I know I most definitely bought these somewhere on 90% off clearance. At the time I didn't know what in the world I was going to use them for, but they were too cheap to pass on. I taped one of each to the bottom of these little containers from Dollar Tree and placed the others in the container. Easy peesy sorting task. So be sure to hit up those after holiday clearance sections to buy some materials for next year!</div>
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Another super easy sorting task box to set up. I have tons of these small containers from Dollar Tree and use them for SO many things throughout the classroom so I just grabbed a red and green one from my stash and threw in some bells. A holiday touch, easy, and cheap! </div>
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My last holiday work box is another shape sorting one, but it's with Christmas trees. I just did one of these, but same set up as the others I shared. This one only has 2 different cards. You can get these from my TpT store by clicking <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Shape-Sorting-Christmas-Bundle-2232034">{here}</a>. </div>
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I know it's after the holidays, but be sure to save this post for next year and shop those clearance sections now to find cheap materials! I did snap photos of my winter themed boxes for January that I will be sharing over break too! </div>
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Erin Lukashttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13288204747041235248noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8198152919230967138.post-42061812173550229922017-10-16T19:55:00.000-04:002017-10-16T19:55:42.362-04:00Planning for Apples WeekWhen school first starts I don't seem to have much of a theme. I claim it's "back to school" but we're focusing so much on just the routine and transitions that there's isn't much of one at all. Then I like to do colors and before I know it's it's mid October and I'm conflicted between apples and pumpkins.<br />
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We usually do themes for 2 weeks at a time. I think we're going to do apples for about 1 week and then go into pumpkins/Halloween/fall. That should let us play catch up with some of the other classrooms in our hall. They have apples and pumpkins posted outside their rooms and we just posted our rainbow craft 😳<br />
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I'm planning this weekend for apples this week and thought I would share what resources I'm putting to use.<br />
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As part of their arrival routine students have an assigned cookie tray activity to complete. We just started these 2 weeks ago and they've done really well with them. We started out with a mixture of simple tasks and this week will be doing apple themed activities from my Apples Cookie Tray Activities Pack. You can check it out <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Apple-Themed-Cookie-Tray-Activities-2116801">{here}</a>.<br />
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<img alt="Apple Themed Cookie Tray Activities" class="ProductImages__mainImage" data-reactid="449" height="400" src="https://ecdn.teacherspayteachers.com/thumbitem/Apple-Themed-Cookie-Tray-Activities-2116801-1500201997/original-2116801-1.jpg" width="306" /></div>
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I have one student who will still be doing simple magnetic dot activities. -- I use these from The Scrappy Penguin. You can grab these <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Alphabet-Dot-Pictures-Color-and-BW-1619304">{here}</a>.<br />
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<img alt="Alphabet Dot Pictures {Color and B&W}" class="ProductImages__mainImage" data-reactid="449" height="246" src="https://ecdn.teacherspayteachers.com/thumbitem/Alphabet-Dot-Pictures-Color-and-BW-1619304-1500873409/original-1619304-1.jpg" width="320" /> </div>
I use these all throughout the school year so I keep them nearby my cookie tray supplies. I printed out the color version and put them on construction paper before laminating.<br />
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Moving along through our routine the next part where we will have some new apple activities during center time. We will have apple themed activities in our play centers and I have some apple themed resources I will use when I pull students to work with me 1:1.<br />
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In our dramatic play center we will have lots of fun with an "Apple Pie Bakery"! The space I have for dramatic play is different than in these photos, but this gives you an idea. This was set up about 5 years ago, maybe 6--yikes! BUT I still have all the same signs and materials in great condition.<br />
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<img border="0" height="240" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jg7K_VA5XXA/TopI5zqNgsI/AAAAAAAAA_E/Xklo02IVrHE/s320/apple+bakery.jpg" width="320" /><img border="0" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-83uBNCTs8EY/TopI7KTsKdI/AAAAAAAAA_I/4ONV5fzFyzk/s320/apple+bakery2.jpg" width="320" /> </div>
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<img border="0" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YpDWRy_IE_0/TopJG0hEBmI/AAAAAAAAA_M/poIKwBFdBP8/s320/apple+bakery3.jpg" width="240" /><img border="0" height="300" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-af0LrwmiN4s/TopJIOrebPI/AAAAAAAAA_Q/oFM2tFXmUD8/s400/apple+bakery5.jpg" width="400" /> </div>
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You can learn more about how I set it up by reading this blog post <a href="http://creatingandteaching.blogspot.com/2011/10/apple-bakery-dramatic-play.html">{here} </a>and you can purchase the Apple Bakery Dramatic Play Set <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Apples-Apples-Apples-Unit-339755">{here}.</a> as part of my Apples, Apples, Apples Unit.<br />
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In the art area when we aren't doing an apple theme craft we will having these playdoh mats available with red playdoh. Students practice counting and 1:1 correspondence by adding the correct number of apples to each mat.<br />
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<img alt="Apple Tree Playdough Mats" class="ProductImages__mainImage" data-reactid="451" height="400" src="https://ecdn.teacherspayteachers.com/thumbitem/Apple-Tree-Playdough-Mats-1349460608/original-351663-1.jpg" width="300" /><img alt="Apple Tree Playdough Mats" class="ProductImages__mainImage" data-reactid="451" height="400" src="https://ecdn.teacherspayteachers.com/thumbitem/Apple-Tree-Playdough-Mats-1349460608/original-351663-3.jpg" width="300" /> </div>
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These are a FREEBIE in my TpT store that you can download <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Apple-Tree-Playdough-Mats-351663">{here}</a>. </div>
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As students are playing at free choice centers I will call them to work with me 1:1 so we can practice on academic tasks. I will use themed resources when appropriate and for students who are practicing those skills. I have counting books for numbers 1-10, and 11-20, and shape sorting cards too.<br />
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<img alt="Apple 10 Frame Counting Interactive Book" class="ProductImages__mainImage" data-reactid="449" height="246" src="https://ecdn.teacherspayteachers.com/thumbitem/Apple-10-Frame-Counting-Interactive-Book-3259341-1500873387/original-3259341-1.jpg" width="320" /><img alt="Apple 20 Frame Counting Interactive Book" class="ProductImages__mainImage" data-reactid="449" height="246" src="https://ecdn.teacherspayteachers.com/thumbitem/Apple-20-Frame-Counting-Interactive-Book-3259364-1500873387/original-3259364-1.jpg" width="320" /></div>
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<img alt="Apple Shape Sorting" class="ProductImages__mainImage" data-reactid="449" src="https://ecdn.teacherspayteachers.com/thumbitem/Apple-Shape-Sorting-2118231-1500201987/original-2118231-1.jpg" /></div>
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These are also great to assign to students in work boxes as independent tasks if you are looking to reinforce already mastered skills.<br />
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Here's more information on them all: <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Apple-10-Frame-Counting-Interactive-Book-3259341">1-10 counting book</a>, <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Apple-20-Frame-Counting-Interactive-Book-3259364">11-20 counting book</a>, <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Apple-Shape-Sorting-2118231">shape sorting cards</a>. <br />
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Following center time we have recess and then large group time. At large group time we typically read a book, or complete an adapted book as a class. Following our book we check out a follow-up song/video on the smartboard or I introduce a new song to the students.<br />
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I love to have any type of manipulative I can when I'm introducing new activities. This 5 Little Apples Song is great because I created counting cards that we can use as we count down our apples.<br />
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<img alt="5 Little Apples Activity Cards" class="ProductImages__mainImage" data-reactid="449" src="https://ecdn.teacherspayteachers.com/thumbitem/5-Little-Apples-Activity-Cards-1500873387/original-354098-1.jpg" /></div>
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I can also take the song page and place it in our song book if the students want to do it again at a later date. If you are interested in these cards you can grab them <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/5-Little-Apples-Activity-Cards-354098">{here}</a>.<br />
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For our adapted books, most of the ones I use are from <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Apples-Adapted-Book-I-Like-Apples-wReal-Photos-2002480">File Folder Heaven</a> and <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Apple-Adapted-Book-Bundle-2129948">Adventures in the ATC</a><br />
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<img alt="Apples Adapted Book--"I Like Apples" (w/Real Photos)" class="ProductImages__mainImage" data-reactid="449" height="320" src="https://ecdn.teacherspayteachers.com/thumbitem/Apples-Adapted-Book-I-Like-Apples-wReal-Photos-2002480-1459532440/original-2002480-1.jpg" width="297" /><img alt="Apple Adapted Book Bundle" class="ProductImages__mainImage" data-reactid="446" src="https://ecdn.teacherspayteachers.com/thumbitem/Apple-Adapted-Book-Bundle-2129948-1459986615/original-2129948-1.jpg" /> </div>
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That pretty much wraps up my apple planning and resources that I'll use. I know most of my links are for my own products, but my intentions were not to force sell my own stuff. I truly create materials that I am using in my classroom for my own use. I don't just create products to sell them. I felt that walking you through my planning and showing you the items I use would help to illustrate that!<br />
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-- not to mention I found some new resources I'm going to use this week while planning! We haven't opened our sensory table yet so I don't have anything to share for that. Whats your go-to sensory table item for an apple themed week? <br />
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<img src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6_5NNxyTU5Q/WVrhTTVa4jI/AAAAAAAAFeQ/dAucqucXnRc_Rb2uh0FGxSVigYudeVURwCLcBGAs/s1600/PostSignature-1a.png" />Erin Lukashttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13288204747041235248noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8198152919230967138.post-81202826236833681052017-10-07T10:52:00.003-04:002017-10-07T10:52:24.057-04:00Getting Organized with Stickers! <div style="text-align: center;">
The beginning of the school year (like always) has got me like whoa. I have SO many great ideas to share with you all and am finally finding the time to get caught up. </div>
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One thing I always purchase every year are sticker labels to go with my theme. I feel like I use them EVERYWHERE. <a href="http://www.orientaltrading.com/paint-chip-name-tags/labels-a2-13726986.fltr?categoryId=90000&rd=paint%20chip">Oriental Trading</a> has a roll of the paint chip labels for a great price AND you get 100 of them! I knew I'd have enough for everything I planned to use them for and everything else I thought of doing.<br />
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Another bonus for this roll is that you can fold and rip the labels off, keeping them on the paper backing.<br />
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I always label our cubbies with student names, usually just sticking their Letter Link sticker right on the bucket. I bought all new buckets this year and wanted to avoid putting sticker labels directly on them.<br />
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Since I was able to keep the backing on these sticker labels I knew I could add the students Letter Link to them, laminate them and then velcro them to our cubbie buckets.<br />
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I used only the colors that matched the buckets that I had. I used this same method to label their IEP buckets in our 1:1 work area too, but didn't snap a photo of those!<br />
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I love how they turned out! The lamination from my small scotch laminator makes them super sturdy to apply to their cubbies.<br />
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While I was checking out the "paint chip" products that Oriental Trading had available I also saw <a href="http://www.orientaltrading.com/paint-chip-pocket-folders-a2-13726957.fltr?categoryId=90000&rd=paint%20chip">these folders</a>. I still needed student folders for the school year and these are perfect! Not only do they go with theme of my classroom BUT they also correspond with color coding for my students too! I'd be remiss if I didn't also point out the <b><span style="color: red;">$3.97</span></b> price for 8 folders!<br />
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My only mistake-- I thought I ordered 2 packs and didn't realize I only ordered 1 until I opened them the day before open house. -hahah whoops. Teacher brain! I had to scramble last minute for color coded folders for my AM section and that's why they don't match. 😳<br />
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I may even have to scoop up some additional folder sets for next school year! </div>
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<img src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6_5NNxyTU5Q/WVrhTTVa4jI/AAAAAAAAFeQ/dAucqucXnRc_Rb2uh0FGxSVigYudeVURwCLcBGAs/s1600/PostSignature-1a.png" />Erin Lukashttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13288204747041235248noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8198152919230967138.post-51946040896169041202017-09-03T08:37:00.000-04:002017-09-03T08:37:04.689-04:00Classroom Set Up 2017-2018 {Day 6} Monday was my first contracted day back to work and honestly I forgot to snap pictures before I started working so I could show you progress. I snapped my photos at the end of the day instead and just decided from that point, I'd start taking them at the end of the day.<br />
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Well. That didn't happen. There has been so much going on between meetings, PD, and screenings that I started forgetting to snap photos and was so focused on squeezing in progress any chance I could get.<br />
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I haven't taken any photos since Monday the 28th, but wanted to show you the final lay out that I came up with. From this point I've just been gradually making my way around the room and putting things away and organizing different areas.<br />
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My work boxes are no longer in this spot! I basically flip flopped the sides of the classroom, moving centers to this side and work boxes to the other. I also got all of my cabinets organized (hence the green post its on them for future labels) -- which was huge progress, just not super noticeable progress.<br />
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You can barely tell but my new classroom rug came! It's flipped over in these photos per the instructions to get it to lay flat-- follow this step! It really works! <br />
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This angle has looked the same for a while. It was a great place to put all the bins and pull from here as I needed them for various things.<br />
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Another view of the front, I moved a few minor things around from here, but not too much. I'm planning on using a room divider to block the climber and trampoline when we're sitting on the carpet.<br />
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I found the perfect bookshelf to make my 1:1 work area with (the back corner in this shot) I have a lot of organizing to do back there still, but I'm thinking it's going to work perfectly!<br />
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So much stuff. So so so much stuff. It looks amazing now and I can walk into this storage closet. That's a first in basically my all previous 6 years at this school! ha. My closet floor has never been this clear! <br />
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We have our meeting the teacher on Friday September 8th and I'm going to be honest. I'm starting to panic a little bit. I don't feel prepared AT ALL, but just keep reminding myself that I still have 4ish days left. We will be helping in Kindergarten rooms all day, but I should have time here and there and after school to get some things done.<br />
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Hopefully I'll get some things done over our long weekend too that will help :)<br />
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The next time I update you on my classroom status I hope to be sharing the final shots! <br />
<img src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6_5NNxyTU5Q/WVrhTTVa4jI/AAAAAAAAFeQ/dAucqucXnRc_Rb2uh0FGxSVigYudeVURwCLcBGAs/s1600/PostSignature-1a.png" />Erin Lukashttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13288204747041235248noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8198152919230967138.post-41256519801519273492017-09-02T18:02:00.000-04:002017-09-02T18:02:55.841-04:00Sensory Theraply Box! -- August ReviewWow you guys! I did my live box opening on time but really slacked in getting these links posted to get you more information about each of the items! My September box should be arriving early this week.<br />
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If you didn't see the live opening, or it's been so long between now and then that you want to watch it over, you can do so right here!<br />
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If you saw any awesome items in the video that you want to try out in your classroom I've found them ALL and I've given you links below to where you can find them. Again, this is NOT a paid post. I do not get these boxes for free nor do I get any discounts on my orders. I simply LOVE them and LOVE sharing them with you.<br />
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NOW, the amazon links listed below are affiliate links, meaning I get a teeny tiny bit of $ if you make a purchase through that link, but only if you make a purchase. Any link outside of amazon is not an affiliate link.<br />
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This months box at 7 items in it-- I think that's the most I've had in a box so far! Here's what I got:<br />
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1. Lavender and Chamomile Essential Oil Calming Dough<br />
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You guessed it, it smells amazing and is super soft! It's $4 a tin and they have lots of different options too. Check it out by clicking <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/532230783/chamomile-lavender-aromatherapy-calming?ref=related-1">{here}</a></div>
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2. Playable Art OSM, Kinetic Sculptural Toy</div>
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This one was my favorite item in the box! You can purchase it in a few more colors too. </div>
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3. Melissa and Doug Scratch Art Sketch Pad</div>
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This was super easy to use, it wasn't too hard to scratch off-- super fun for fine motor practice.</div>
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4. Fidgipod<br />
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I had never seen this before! If you watch the video you'll see how to use it :) </div>
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5. Liquid Layers Visual Stimulation Timer</div>
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This one is pretty neat. I've seen these before but didn't own any. Every time my husband comes into my office he turns it around.</div>
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6. Lizard Toy<br />
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I don't know that this is the exact one that I got in my box, but either way, very similiar if not.<br />
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7. Squishy Smiley</div>
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Another oldie but goodie. I feel like these guys have been around for a while, but again, I don't own any. When I was a little kid I managed to explode one of these so they do make a little nervous! haha This price shown is also for a pack of 4 of them. </div>
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So this month I just added up the total for all of the items that came
in the box-- assuming that I found the correct items and did my math on the multi packs correct, and the total is $39.99. The subscription box is $39.99 a
month. That was a turn off for me originally, but this months box broke even on the pricing. Each month is different. <br />
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I will keep you guys posted on when the September box arrives and when I will be doing my live!</div>
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Interested in Sensory TheraPlay Box?! Click <a href="http://www.sensorytheraplaybox.com/">{here}</a> to sign up! --<br />
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<img src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6_5NNxyTU5Q/WVrhTTVa4jI/AAAAAAAAFeQ/dAucqucXnRc_Rb2uh0FGxSVigYudeVURwCLcBGAs/s1600/PostSignature-1a.png" />Erin Lukashttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13288204747041235248noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8198152919230967138.post-6497037139414031262017-08-29T16:00:00.000-04:002017-08-29T16:00:30.566-04:00Back to School Nesting If this isn't already a known thing, I'm making it a thing and no I'm not pregnant. <br />
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"Nesting instinct" is the urge in those pregnant to prepare their home for a baby. I'm bringing attention to what I'm now calling back to school nesting. I've come to realize that I continually do this prior to returning to school after summer break, and even after winter and spring breaks too. <br />
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I've had roughly 3 months to tackle just about any project I wanted to take on around the home. Sure I thought of things that needed to be done all the time, but generally found something else to devote my time and attention to instead. Most often neglecting chores that I surely should not have. i.e. weeding, trimming shrubs, anything of the sort. <br />
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Now that my summer vacation days have dwindled to single digits {by the time of publishing I've been back to work for 2 days!} I feel like I'm doing every house chore that should have or could have been done over the span of 3 months. I'm preparing my home so I can go back to work = back to school nesting.<br />
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I spent 4 hours weeding the flower beds and down our driveway the other day. I've trimmed every shrub that has a stray branch--if I can reach it. I'm hanging picture frames so I can stop staring at them propped against the walls in mini piles. I've sprayed our windows and foundation with spider stuff so that it doesn't look like we're decorating early for Halloween. The list goes on. <br /><br />The final weekend before heading back to work officially I restocked the fridge and cabinets until I didn't think anything else was going to fit and I pulled out my "7 Days a Week" notepad for meal planning. <br /><br />I've scheduled facebook posts for my page for the rest of the week and even into September and worked on trying to get several blog posts written and scheduled. <br /><br />The kitchen's clean, the mail pile has been sorted, there's still some laundry to fold but I think I'm ready. Year #8, here I come! <br /><br />Can anyone else relate to this feeling or is it just me? <br />
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<img src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6_5NNxyTU5Q/WVrhTTVa4jI/AAAAAAAAFeQ/dAucqucXnRc_Rb2uh0FGxSVigYudeVURwCLcBGAs/s1600/PostSignature-1a.png" />Erin Lukashttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13288204747041235248noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8198152919230967138.post-65261465626871106562017-08-28T01:00:00.000-04:002017-08-28T01:00:11.969-04:00Classroom Set Up 2017-2018 {Days 3, 4, & 5}So I did great the first 2 days staying on top of sharing my progress pictures. Then everything just kind of blurred together. I took pictures at the start of day 3, 4, and 5, but honestly I don't think you'll notice much difference besides me just adding more and more stuff to my classroom.<br />
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I've taken in 4.5 car loads. And by car loads I'm talking packed to the brim Ford Explorer loads. It honestly hasn't been as bad as I expected. I still have some materials left behind at home-- thematic resources mostly, which I will pull out of the attic and take in to school as needed.<br />
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Since you won't probably notice too much difference in the photos across these days I decided to combine theses posts together. I actually like how you can see the side by side to see whether progress really occurred or not.<br />
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If I'm being honest, I've been confusing myself with these posts. I should probably be taking my photos at the end of the each day instead of in the morning of the next day. Day 1 should have included 2 sets of photos-- at the start and at the end. But oh well, we're here now!<br />
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Each day I try to get similiar angles/shots for each photo to help make better comparisons. You see here the only real change is the table. My afternoon group has 8 students. We were not fitting 8 at that horseshoe table.<br />
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Day 3 to 4 shows moving the sand table to set up the book area (spoiler alert, that's been moved again and now the sand table is back...) I also moved that big cubbie piece and placed a table there instead.<br />
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The middle of the room right now is pretty much just the resting place for materials as I figure out where they're going to go. I did go through all of those cabinets to the right and decided what materials I was keeping and getting rid of.<br />
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Day 3 I was rushed snapping my photos so there's no comparison shot for this one or the next one. I had to attend new employee orientation all day and then rush to school to unload the car before it rained. -- it never rained until I was leaving...<br />
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Pretty much just another catch all place for stuff until room layout is done. Then I can pull from here to organize. Mostly storing bins in the middle right now. You can never have too many bins in my book!<br />
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While you may not be able to tell exactly from these shots I feel like I have rearranged this side of the room a million times. I still wasn't happy with it so spoiler alert again-- it doesn't look like this anymore.<br />
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This photo obviously shows the most progress, but don't let those bins fool you. Most of them are empty and none of those books are organized. I've also since filled the floor of the closet up again with more manipulatives that need putting away.<br />
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Friday afternoon I got my small climber piece added to my classroom. I was not happy with my layout. I don't think I had been all week, but I didn't know what else to do. I finally realized I NEEDED a different shelf. I found a shelf in the building and got permission to have it moved to my room. This led to me completely re-arranging my room from what you see in these photos. I *think* I'm finally happy with what I came up with. We will see. We have to put children in there to truly test it out.<br />
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I'm hoping to start focusing more on unpacking, cleaning and organizing from this point forward. Fingers crossed no more room re-arrangements!<br />
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<img src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6_5NNxyTU5Q/WVrhTTVa4jI/AAAAAAAAFeQ/dAucqucXnRc_Rb2uh0FGxSVigYudeVURwCLcBGAs/s1600/PostSignature-1a.png" />Erin Lukashttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13288204747041235248noreply@blogger.com22tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8198152919230967138.post-66455537447919264282017-08-27T17:59:00.002-04:002017-08-27T18:00:33.650-04:00"Extra" Things You "Dew" Appreciation GiftEvery year I tell myself I want to do more to show my appreciation for the staff in our building that are always going above and beyond behind the scenes-- custodians, secretaries, volunteers, etc. <br />
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This year I promise to make it happen. I'm setting it as a school year goal for myself. <br />
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Tomorrow is our first official day back after the summer but I've already spent a week in my classroom unloading my car, shuffling things around, swapping out furniture, and filling up the hallway with items I no longer want. <br />
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If you think that sounds like a lot coming from me, just go ahead and multiply by that by say at least 20, because that's how many other people are asking the same things of our custodians right now and they're rock stars. <br />
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Seriously. They have been so helpful this week and I've been given zero grief for any furniture moving requests. I wanted to show them some extra appreciation beyond a simple "thank you" for all of their hard work!<br />
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I'm so happy with how this turned out. It couldn't be any better. We have 5 custodians in our building so this worked perfectly to fit 2 sodas and 2 packs of gum each.<br />
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I simply bought a 12 pack of soda and a pack of gum from Sams Club. Printed the sign and taped it on-- voila! I'm planning to drop this off to their office in the morning. I do want them to return the container when they're finished though-- haha, I'll probably want to use it the next time! <br />
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If you want to grab this free sign to use yourself, simply click <a href="https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Custodian-Secretary-Volunteer-Appreciation-Gift-Sign-3360223">{here}</a> and download the file! <br />
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<img src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6_5NNxyTU5Q/WVrhTTVa4jI/AAAAAAAAFeQ/dAucqucXnRc_Rb2uh0FGxSVigYudeVURwCLcBGAs/s1600/PostSignature-1a.png" />Erin Lukashttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13288204747041235248noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8198152919230967138.post-81329301120530642632017-08-22T22:24:00.001-04:002017-08-22T22:27:29.607-04:00Classroom Set-Up 2017-2018 {Day 2}Shew. It's 10pm and I'm just starting to write this. Day 2 was long and I only stayed until 3:30pm! I had errands to run afterwards-- basically picking things up for the classroom and after realizing I really don't have enough furniture I feel like I'm on the hunt for discounted book cases and more toy shelving. <br />
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Oh, and then there was studying for a test for my class, taking said test, hauling teacher stuff out of the attic and into the car, which is now packed to the brim (again) to head in for Day 3. <br />
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When I arrived this morning I snapped photos. If you compare these photos to Day 1 you'll be able to tell what progress was made on Day 1.<br />
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As I mentioned in my last post, I was pretty pleased with how far I made it during day 1.<br />
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I got some furniture situated at the end of day 1 and decided this was going to be where I set up my work box system. The shelving I have this go around is nothing like what I was spoiled with in years past, but I'm up for the challenge!<br />
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Still not 100% on what I'm going to be using that piece in the middle for with the squares on top. For right now it's great for breaking up that space and not having any wide open areas to urge students to run. <br />
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I have my desk over closer to the smartboard than I have in the past. There are a lot of cords and cables that run from it to the computer. It made sense to me to have them close together to avoid the risk of a cord being grabbed, etc.<br />
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Quick and easy, but looks like more progress! I opened up boxes of bins I ordered from Walmart and placed them in the cubbies-- also made me realize that I had more colors of them that didn't make it on the first car load.<br />
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Another shot over by the smartboard. That large tent is obviously not staying there. That was a $12 clearance find at Target last fall and I never opened it. I'm glad I didn't because there's no way that tent would have fit in my previous classroom. It's so much bigger than I expected!<br />
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Basically just a pile of stuff from my first car trip. So much to organize so for right now it just gets dumped. Still working on room layout and figuring out my centers.<br />
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And last but not least, a comparative shot on what the closet looked like after I went through it! I did find a lot of goodies to hang on to, but for the most part am passing materials on. I'm happy to be starting with this much free space in the storage closet because trust me. I have a ton more stuff to bring in! <br />
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My goals today for Day 2 were to:<br />
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1. Unload the car<br />
2. Finish bulletin boards<br />
3. Finalize furniture placement<br />
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I managed to accomplish the first 2, but the furniture placement is still a huge work in progress. We had a meeting discussing some components of the APERS rating scale for our classrooms so there are some areas I need to make sure that I include. As a result I'm on a quest for additional furniture pieces. Maybe by Friday we can have furniture arrangement complete?! <br />
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I just found out today, after being told I didn't need to attend, that I do in fact have to attend new employee orientation. I'm super salty about it. So my Day 3 goals are most likely just going to include snapping some photos for you first thing and unloading the car. <br />
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Maybe I'll get lucky and they'll again decide that there is no need for me to attend :) <br />
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<img src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6_5NNxyTU5Q/WVrhTTVa4jI/AAAAAAAAFeQ/dAucqucXnRc_Rb2uh0FGxSVigYudeVURwCLcBGAs/s1600/PostSignature-1a.png" />Erin Lukashttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13288204747041235248noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8198152919230967138.post-21245452059684459472017-08-21T22:06:00.000-04:002017-08-21T22:06:17.313-04:00Classroom Set-Up 2017-2018 {Day 1}Today marks my first day in my classroom for the 2017-2018 school year! Our first contracted day is not until next Monday, the 28th, but today was the first day we were allowed back into our classrooms to work on them. <br />
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I'm usually in my classroom for all the extra time they give us. I also have to move ALL of my personal belongings into my classroom this year and that takes even more time. I commute an hour each way so it's not really practical for me to make more than 1 trip in a day-- or at least I'm trying to avoid that.<br />
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Since I'm returning to the school that I left for one year I have a new classroom! I'm actually super excited about this because it's fun to work in a new space. I have new furniture and materials to work with-- it's refreshing. <br />
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Typically I snap some before photos of my classroom and then share them with the after once it's all done. This year, I thought I'd share progress pictures from each day. I snapped some photos from around my room for how it looked when I walked in first thing today.<br />
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-koumBXtJ1qQ/WZuOaWfQC8I/AAAAAAAAKF8/BT-KrHge1xEaeyrZDtram8GU1wQBk6OQgCLcBGAs/s1600/setupday1.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1124" data-original-width="1280" height="562" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-koumBXtJ1qQ/WZuOaWfQC8I/AAAAAAAAKF8/BT-KrHge1xEaeyrZDtram8GU1wQBk6OQgCLcBGAs/s640/setupday1.png" width="640" /></a><br />
Disclaimer: I had previously visited for about 2 hours earlier this month and had the opportunity to move some furniture around to get a feel for things.<br />
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I gave myself 3 goals to accomplish and a timeline to complete them by 3:30pm. <br />
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1. Unload the car<br />
2. Clean out the classroom closet <br />
3. Bulletin boards<br />
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I managed to get all 3 done and a little bit more and left around 3:45pm. I of course ran out of some bulletin border. The 2 colors I bought extra of I ended up not needing, but ran out of others. I'm hoping to finish those up first thing tomorrow morning, but not before I snap my Day 2 photos!<br />
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I'm not 100% on my furniture arrangement yet and I have some other pieces to add and areas to define. I'm considering having my desk closer to our Smartboard this year because there are so many cords and wires. I feel like it puts my desk in the middle of our learning centers though?<br />
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I need to find some more shelving like the one straight ahead. This is what we've come to use in a lot of our classrooms for our work box set-ups. They hold the shoe size containers and can be much cheaper than typical classroom furniture shelving.<br /><br />I'm also changing out the bulletin boards even though this room already had paper up. I like to do my boards all the same color. Once up though, I'll try not to change them for a year or 2.<br />
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My idea is for this area to be the focus of our work boxes. When students aren't in the room it will be nice to have that table close to my desk for spreading out on.<br />
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This is the area straight ahead when you walk in the classroom door. Typically I arrange the furniture to block this area off so students have no choice but to enter the room and go to their cubby. Hoping to make that work out again this year, but we will see.<br />
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And then there was this. This was the closet I cleaned out today. There were actually some great materials in there that I am keeping, but most of it I'm passing on to other teachers. Plenty of books, but I have too many myself already. It will be nice to just have all of my box and not a mix of mine and the schools. <br /><br />Tomorrow I have a meeting/training in the afternoon for 3 hours so that really only leaves the morning to work with. My car is packed to the brim with another load to take in. Tommorrows goals include:<br />
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1. Unload the car<br />
2. Finish bulletin boards<br />
3. Finalize furniture placement <br />
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I hope you'll keep following along to see my progress. This will also help demonstrate that this does not happen over night and just about every teachers journey in classroom set up is a hot mess. <br />
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<img src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6_5NNxyTU5Q/WVrhTTVa4jI/AAAAAAAAFeQ/dAucqucXnRc_Rb2uh0FGxSVigYudeVURwCLcBGAs/s1600/PostSignature-1a.png" />Erin Lukashttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13288204747041235248noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8198152919230967138.post-47931540667166787852017-08-17T20:00:00.000-04:002017-08-17T20:00:23.217-04:00{5} Classroom Set-Up Essentials We're allowed to start working in our classrooms on Monday and I'm actually pretty excited. Every year before I go back in there are a few essentials that I pick up from the store. These items are always coming in hand at the last minute because I never know what I might need them for. If you're a first year teacher these are essentials you NEED to know!<br />
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<u> 1. Command Hooks.</u><br />
I keep a container of command hooks handy in my classroom at all times. They come in need for so many things. I usually pick up a packs of a few different sizes (and weights!) before heading back into the classroom. I also grab some extra adhesive strips for any old ones I have, or hooks I decide to move around.<br />
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<u>2. Poster Putty.</u><br />
I know a lot of people will thumbs down this one, but I always buy the Loctite Brand and never really have trouble with stuff falling down too much. It's really frowned upon in our building to put tape on the walls. I think the key to this stuff is using just the right amount. Too much adds weight to your poster. I wouldn't recommend any other brand.<br />
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<u>3. Clorox Wipes.</u><br />
Our custodians have worked hard all summer doing lots of cleaning and re-waxing the floors. If my hallway was one of the first they did then things have probably gotten a little gross since then. I love having a container of wipes handy to wipe down shelving, etc.<br />
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<u>4. Paper Towels</u>.<br />
I know, doesn't the school have them? They do. But they are those brown ones that might as well just be recycled construction paper. They don't clean well or soak up anything really. I always keep a roll of regular paper towels in my classroom.<br />
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<u>5. Contact Paper.</u><br />
I love using contact paper to cover any eyesores. I've put it on the sides of some pretty beat up file cabinets to help give them a nicer look. It takes some practice to get the application down, but it's pretty easy. You can find a great selection of patterns/colors online, as well as at most major retailers in their home/kitchen section.<br />
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These are 5 items that I know I will end up using during my classroom set-up process. If I've got momentum going while working in my room the last thing I want to do is stop what I'm doing and run out to the store for something. That's less likely to happen with these items on hand!<br />
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<img src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6_5NNxyTU5Q/WVrhTTVa4jI/AAAAAAAAFeQ/dAucqucXnRc_Rb2uh0FGxSVigYudeVURwCLcBGAs/s1600/PostSignature-1a.png" />Erin Lukashttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13288204747041235248noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8198152919230967138.post-87821059190850119962017-08-11T09:49:00.000-04:002017-08-12T13:50:42.887-04:00{7} Tips for Chewers! Do you have students in your classroom that are always seeking items to put in their mouth for oral motor sensory? Do you have students who are always grinding their teeth? --Ugh. Just typing that made my skin crawl.<br />
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I've had students who grind their teeth non-stop and students who are chewing on whatever they can get their hands on. I've been so thankful that I've never had to worry about a student swallowing any item they were chewing-- they were just seeking the chewing, but it is still a real safety concern. <br />
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It's important we find appropriate replacements to fulfill this need for our students in a safe way so they aren't risking accidentally choking on a pencil eraser because they've gnawed it off their pencils.<br />
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Your occupational therapist at school can be a great resource when it comes to this type of stuff, but I've put together a list of items to look into that have worked for me in the classroom. Amazon links are affiliate links.<br />
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<u>1. Ps & Qs!</u><br />
Yes, that's what they're called. I've personally never had a student use a Q, but have had quite a few with the P chews. This is a great place to start for a student who is grinding their teeth or frequently biting on classroom materials. From here you can find different shapes/textures/strengths for students.<br />
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<u>2. Chewy Tubes & Ark Grabbers</u><br />
Chewy tubes come in different sizes, textures and colors. They are a hallow tube so the input they give is different than if you offered a solid chew like the Ps and Qs or Ark Grabbers. The Ark Grabbers come in tough strengths which are great for those super hard chewers/grinders.<br />
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<u>3. Chewlry</u><br />
There are SO many options for chewlry to use. They are mostly solid chews and come in all different shapes and sizes to meet students needs. The variety of choices you have for these can work out if you're looking for something age appropriate for a student. It might be easier to find a shape they can wear that doesn't stand out as much as carrying around a grabber or a P & Q.<br />
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<u>4. Pencil Toppers</u><br />
These work great for older students who are frequently sitting and using writing materials. You can place them on the back of their pencil so they can chew on that item instead of the end of their pencil. These comes in all different shapes and sizes as well. Again, some more age appropriate than others depending on the age of your student.<br />
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<u>5. Hoodie Chews</u><br />
I've personally never used these in my classroom, but recently found them and think they are GENIUS! How many of us know a student who chews on their clothing/sweat shirt strings?! I love this one the most for it's blending in factor. You can easily put these on the ends of the sweat shirt strings and if they are the same color as the string they aren't really going to stand out as much. You can easily put a sweatshirt on a student who is chewing on their shirt collar (temperature permitting) and this would allow a more appropriate chewing option. The only website I've been able to find them from is in the UK.<br />
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<u>6. Chewease Tubes</u><br />
These are clear tubes that students can chew on. Again, these don't really stand out too much which is nice. You can find them with a closed end to help avoid spit collection -- gross, but we do what our students need, right? I've also heard teachers mention that you can purchase aquarium tubing for this same purpose and it's very cheap. I've never used this myself. Honestly, I'm not positive of the safety concerns with that option-- is it non-toxic? Appropriate for mouthing? -- so I tend to stick to what I know is.<br />
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<u>7. Chew Buddy</u><br />
These are great for holding on to certain chew items. You can clip them, hang them, and can help with not losing them or mixing them up with other students. I thought they were worth sharing along with the suggestions above.<br />
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<a href="https://www.chubuddy.com/product/chewy-holders-navy-set-two/"><img alt="https://www.chubuddy.com/product/chewy-holders-navy-set-two/" border="0" data-original-height="522" data-original-width="1049" height="318" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BL96TRSuY1Q/WY20uzH3M9I/AAAAAAAAKFc/6A8E5T5JIhMJTdhwZerKEWZZWCZ-3JsTACLcBGAs/s640/chewtubeholder.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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Any pitfalls to these options? <br />
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Well yes, there are a few things to take into consideration when looking for the right chew for your student/child. My biggest thing is age appropriateness. Make sure what you are choosing is as age appropriate as you can get to meet your students needs. <br />
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The next thing is sanitary needs. We all know these things can get gross. Especially the open tube options. I try to steer away from open items as much as possible because they collect spit. Most often students who really need their chews are good about keeping them with them because they need it and enjoy the input they get. But it's still important to keep tabs on where chews are, what surfaces they have touched and if more than one student has one, making sure they don't get mixed up! <br />
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I hope these are suggestions that have sparked your interest to look into further! Again, I am NOT an occupational therapist and they are great resources when it comes to these items! If you see something on this list that you like and think will work for your student/child, talk to your OT! Get their opinions too! <br />
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<img src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6_5NNxyTU5Q/WVrhTTVa4jI/AAAAAAAAFeQ/dAucqucXnRc_Rb2uh0FGxSVigYudeVURwCLcBGAs/s1600/PostSignature-1a.png" />Erin Lukashttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13288204747041235248noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8198152919230967138.post-1499946860740018792017-07-20T10:32:00.000-04:002017-07-20T10:32:10.657-04:00My Target Haul AND {Ideas}So this post actually might be a little controversial and quite frankly it's absolutely silly that it even could be! It's not going to be what you might think, because I'm actually NOT sharing my "Target haul" with you, and I will tell you why.<br />
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I'm guilty of feeling the joy and excitement behind a good score for an item in the Dollar Spot just like the rest of us. I'm guilty of making trips to Target JUST to go to the Dollar Spot, and yes I'm probably guilty of sharing a Target haul post in the past too. <br />
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But now I can't get on Facebook or Instagram without being bombarded with "look what I bought!" and if I'm being 100% honest, it has become quite the pet peeve. -- and the fuel for this post. <br />
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I know the Dollar Spot has great deals, hello, it's called the Dollar Spot. <br />
I know that they stock back to school materials during the summer, I don't live under a rock.<br />
I know that items sell fast, I make excuses to go to Target for this reason. <br />
I know that I most likely will not find at my Target, what others have found at theirs.<br />
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I know that I want MORE. I want more than the "look what I bought" post. I see those items. I saw them at my Target too because like you, I was there 10 minutes ago. What I don't know, is how do YOU plan to use those items in YOUR classroom? Inspire me. If you can't tell me what you'll use the item for then I can almost guarantee you, you probably never will. <br />
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I don't intend to be judgemental-- you do you. I just want to encourage you to share more ideas of what you'll do with your hauls, instead of just sharing a picture of your haul. <br />
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That said, I'd be amiss if I didn't share an idea with you for how I plan to use an item from the Target Dollar Spot. We're all still friends after that convo, right?<br />
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I was happy to find these letter clothespins in the Dollar Spot this week. They're a great price (of course) at $3 a pack. They sell very similiar ones in Michael's, they're just priced higher. I knew right away what I was going to use these for so I bought them. Money saving tip: if you can't think of what you'll do with an item by the time you get to check out, cause let's be honest you went for just the Dollar Spot, but you're browsing the whole store just in case, put it back.<br />
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I made letter matching wheels to create an academic work box task with the clothespins. They're wide so I could not fit all 26 letters onto one wheel. I split the alphabet in half and one wheel has letters A-M and the next N-Z.<br />
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You could put both wheels into 1 task box, or split them and create 2 task boxes, each with 13 letters.<br />
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Of course, differentiation is a staple in our special education world so there are multiple versions of these wheels. There are capitals in order, lowercase in order, capitals in random order, and lowercase in random order.<br />
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For even MORE differentiation, you can take crayons and color the sections of the wheel to provide students with a color cue for where to place the clip. <br />
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AND since you've already spent $3 to grab your clothespins, or more if you bought them at Michael's, this is a freebie you can grab if you are a member of <a href="http://www.spedsquad.com/">www.spedsquad.com</a> ! Not a member? Click the link above to join! <br />
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So, can I get an amen on sharing IDEAS with your future Target Dollar Spot hauls?<br />
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Erin Lukashttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13288204747041235248noreply@blogger.com2