"Makerspace" seems to be one of the latest and greatest buzzwords in education right now, especially when it comes to STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math) or STEAM (science, technology, engineering, art, and math) learning. I always try to come up with innovative, fun ways to create genuine learning experiences in my classroom that incorporate aspects of STEM learning. I have been ... Read More about Summer Book Club with Andriana @the_active_educator Part 1: Unpacking Hacks 1 & 2
100th Day Centers & a Freebie
The 100th Day is one of my favorites to celebrate every year - and I think I've finally found the perfect combination of activities that are low-prep, and can be done independently by my little ones. That combination makes me one happy kindergarten teacher! So I thought I would share what works well for me in my classroom on this festive, fun day of learning! Setting the Stage for FUN What do ... Read More about 100th Day Centers & a Freebie
Guided Math Centers in Kindergarten
Guided math centers have easily become my favorite time of the day! It amazes me to see the progress kids make during this time. They run so smoothly, students are so engaged and to be honest, it’s just plain fun. While I’ve used the book, Daily 5 with the focus on the Daily 3 to get me started. But, I’ve had to tweak it a bit here and there to fit my ... Read More about Guided Math Centers in Kindergarten
Holidays Around the World in Kindergarten
Holidays around the world is probably one of my students' favorite units during year! Each year is a little different depending on the background of my class, and we have fun learning about our classroom family traditions. During the second week of December, the children make a suitcase and a passport. Each day they travel, they bring home different souvenirs. Each day at the end of the ... Read More about Holidays Around the World in Kindergarten
Holiday Gifts and a Freebie
Parent Gifts Each year the holidays are time for so many wonderful activities! We practice for our holiday performance, and make gifts for our families as we discuss our unique holiday traditions. One of our favorites each year is making these cute and easy picture frames! I start by getting the frames at Michael's for under a dollar ... Read More about Holiday Gifts and a Freebie
Amazon Classroom Favorites
Happy Cyber Monday! Since I have the day off, I'm sharing my Top 10 Amazon must haves for your classroom. Better yet... these are on sale for today at great prices - some even better than Prime Day in the summer! As a teacher, Amazon has come to my rescue so many times throughout the year because, let's face it, sometimes the best lessons come to your mind on a whim. So, thank goodness for 2 day ... Read More about Amazon Classroom Favorites