August/ September

Students write out one thing that they have done over their summer break.

http://www.bulletinboardpro.com/images/BB139b.jpg

http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_2-wvAd2Ad4/UDrbatPtEXI/AAAAAAAAEdk/KeSg7JXAovY/s1600/Owl+Bulletin+Board3cover.jpg

March

http://bulletinboardideas.org/wp-content/blogs.dir/12/files/2011/03/March-Lion-Lamb1.jpg

Read with the students fiction and nonfiction books on lions and lambs. The students will then decide which one they are more like.

Once this is determined the students will write out why they are like that animal and design their animal on a paper plate.

http://www.bulletinboardpro.com/images/BB112b.jpg

April

http://images.search.yahoo.com/images/view;_ylt=A0PDoS_jKbRQl2kA5L2JzbkF;_ylu=X3oDMTBlMTQ4cGxyBHNlYwNzcgRzbGsDaW1n?back=http%3A%2F%2Fimages.search.yahoo.com%2Fsearch%2Fimages%3F_adv_prop%3Dimage%26va%3Dbulletin%2Bboard%2Bideas%26fr%3Dyfp-t-701-s%26tab

%3Dorganic%26ri%3D23&w=1600&h=1200&imgurl=2.bp.blogspot.com%2F_iXn4VQeZano%2FS9jxrdT2kyI%2FAAAAAAAAAd8%2FlbiIekdGgx4%2Fs1600%2FApril_Showers.jpg&rurl=http%3A%2F%2Froom-mom101.blogspot.com%2F2010%2F04%2Fsome-bulletin-board-ideas.html&size=216.7+KB&name=Room+Mom+101%3A+Some+Bulletin+Board+Ideas&p=bulletin+board+ideas&oid=d4458452c55b9162a7c23b0fb7d91b61&fr2=&fr=yfp-t-701-s&tt=Room%2BMom%2B101%253A%2BSome%2BBulletin%2BBoard%2BIdeas&b=0&ni=84&no=23&ts=&tab=organic&sigr=126rjfist&sigb=13l4ccpqq&sigi=12qu64njh&.crumb=MTjbTkX4S50

Students write out and illustrate test taking suggestions

http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FeKj-2uFltE/Tiug5XWRIxI/AAAAAAAAB_Q/VdKxA-br43M/s1600/Spring+Bulletin+Board+09-10.JPG

May

The students write on the ant what they are looking forward to about the next year.

http://bulletinboardideas.org/files/2012/06/Antsy-for-Third-Grade-350x259.jpg

The students write what they enjoyed the most in that grade or something they wont forget about the year.

http://www.bing.com/images/search?q=bulletin+board+ideas&view=detail&id=622CD60577C0ABBC28DDFE0DDA012D7D73E7E33A&first=525

February

Cut out each students hand prints and interlock the hands to form a huge heart.

http://www.bulletinboardpro.com/images/BB1b.jpg

Have the students paint their hand white and the other black and make hand prints on the board. Under the hand prints the students will type out one of their future dreams.

http://newburghschools.org/schools/washingtonprek/subpages/events/BB2.jpg

January

The students illustrate their snow globe with their favorite book, either the cover or a scene they really enjoyed.

http://www.uniqueteachingresources.com/images/SnowglobeStickerChartBulletinBoardDisplay.jpg

Take the students pictures and the students write what AR book they are reading on the cover of their book.

http://media-cache-ec3.pinterest.com/upload/156007574562274074_oA2rHqJK_b.jpg

October

Use rhyming words or even synonyms on the pumpkins

http://media-cache-ec5.pinterest.com/upload/43839796342739040_MKeqvMTH_c.jpg

Dress the students up as a scarecrow and snap their picture.

http://www.myclassroomideas.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/Fall-Fun-Pumpkin-Glyph-BB.jpg

November

Students write what they are thankful for on a feather.

http://media-cache0.pinterest.com/upload/253397916504167777_XCQu6M8N_b.jpg

Students write on the paper what they are going to do for Thanksgiving and decorate the page.

http://bulletinboardideas.org/wp-content/blogs.dir/12/files/2011/11/Turkey-BBI.jpg

December

The students write on a mug why they like winter.

http://www.amazing-preschool-activities.com/images/i-like-winter-because-21234633.jpg

http://www.flickr.com/photos/dovertownlibrary/3304754372/

October

by Karen Tack and Alan Richardson Photograph by Ed Judice

Kids are sure to fall for these bite-size sweets, made from mini vanilla wafers and chocolate kisses.

What you'll need

chocolate frosting mini vanilla wafers chocolate kisses pretzel sticks

How to make it

1. For each, use chocolate frosting to attach a mini vanilla wafer to a chocolate kiss.2. Snap a 1/4-inch section from a pretzel stick for a stem and use more frosting to attach it

to the wafer. Let the frosting set for 20 minutes before serving

http://spoonful.com/recipes/nutty-acorns

by Deborah Way Photograph by Andrew Greto

Your kids can play Frankenstein chefs as they assemble a set of weird and wacky mini-pita faces for party snacks.

What you'll need

small pita flavored cream cheese or hummus edible features of your choice

How to make it

1. For each, remove one half of the top layer of a small pita. Fill the pita with flavored cream cheese or hummus and add edible features. Our faces have cheese teeth, bologna and cornichon-slice tongues, a cauliflower brain, olive-slice eyes, carrot and scallion hair, a carrot nose, and a pepper mouth.

http://spoonful.com/recipes/new-night-of-the-living-bread

November

Looking for a fun snack that will tide over the kids until the big feast? These bite-size birds are easy for kids to make and are sure to be gobbled up.

What you'll need

Cocktail pumpernickel bread Vegetable cream cheese DECORATIONS: Peas (eyes) Red pepper Pepperoni Cheese Cashew Slivered almond Parsley

How to make it

1. For each sandwich, spread vegetable cream cheese between 2 slices of cocktail pumpernickel bread.

2. For the head, use a small drinking glass or round cookie cutter to cut a circle from another slice of bread, then stick it to the top of the sandwich with a dab of cream cheese.

3. Likewise, add facial features such as pea eyes, a red pepper or pepperoni snood (above the beak), and a pepper, cheese, or cashew beak. Finally, wedge pepper, slivered-almond, or parsley-sprig feathers between the bread slices

http://spoonful.com/recipes/teeny-turkeys

Ears a sweet fall treat that's great for a classroom or scout meeting -- marshmallow cobs filled with colorful fruit kernels.

What you'll need

4 tablespoons of butter 4 cups of mini marshmallows 5 cups of puffed corn cereal 1 1/3 cups diced dried fruit (we used raisins, papaya, cranberries, and apricots) Popsicle sticks Fruit leather

How to make it

1. In a large pot, melt butter and mini marshmallows over low heat (about 5 minutes).2. Remove the mixture from the stove and use a wooden spoon to stir in puffed corn cereal

and diced dried fruit. Allow the mixture to cool for about 10 minutes.3. Using buttered hands, shape each treat by pressing 1/3 cup of the mixture around a

Popsicle stick. Add fruit leather husks to the bottom of the ear, slightly moistening them to help them stick if needed. Makes 15 treats.

http://spoonful.com/recipes/edible-indian-corn

August/ September

These noteworthy snacks are sure to earn high marks as a treat after school or at the next classroom gathering.

What you'll need

Cheese sticks 1/2-inch-thick slices of bologna Mustard Bugles corn snacks Raisins

How to make it

1. For each pencil, cut off one end of a cheese stick so that it's flat. Use a paring knife or apple corer to cut a 3/4-inch circle out of the bologna.

2. Dab one end of the circle into the mustard, then attach it to the flat end of the cheese stick.

3. Snap off the end of a Bugle so that its edges are even, and gently press it onto the other end of the cheese stick. Slide half a raisin onto the Bugle for the pencil tip, and you've got a snack that's just write

http://spoonful.com/recipes/chew-your-pencil

Back to school means stocking up on the necessary supplies. Making sure your kids have the right books, notebooks, back packs, utensils and lunch boxes are high on the list. And don’t forget to add snacks! Here is a simple treat that is perfect for a back to school party, or an after school snack.

Back to School S'mores Recipe

Ingredients:

36 Keebler® Deluxe Grahams cookies 12 regular marshmallows 1 tablespoon marshmallow creme Food coloring (optional) Canned vanilla frosting

Directions:

1. For each book, flatten 1 of the marshmallows with the heel of your hand. Place between 2 Keebler Deluxe Grahams cookies.

2. Spread ¼ tsp of marshmallow creme on the back of another cookie.

3. Press cookie, marshmallow creme side in, against one long side of the cookie sandwich to form book binding. Place on plate.

4. Loosely cover and refrigerate for 15 to 30 minutes.

5. Tint frosting, if desired. Use frosting to decorate each "book cover".

Yield: 12 cookie books; 12 servings

http://www.snackpicks.com/en_US/holidays-and-occasions/back-to-school/smore-book-snacks.html

May

Prep Time 5 minutesby Anne Coleman

What you'll need

1 can refried beans 1/2 pound cooked taco-seasoned meat 1 cup shredded cheddar 1 cup salsa 1/2 cup sour cream 1/2 cup sliced black olives 1 bag Tostitos "Scoops!"

Makes 8-12 cups

How to make it

1. Set chips on a large platter and layer with beans, meat, cheddar, salsa, sour cream and black olives.

http://spoonful.com/recipes/taco-cups

This recipe comes from reader Dori Mages, of Northbrook, and is a cute, fast and easy food pun kids will get.

See more recipes in: #Desserts #Reader-submitted

Ingredients

Nilla Wafer cookies Grasshopper or Oreo fudge cookie Vanilla frosting Green, Yellow, and red food coloring

Directions

1. Grab two Nilla wafer cookies for the "bun" of the hamburger.2. Pick your "burger" - fudge-covered Oreos or Grasshopper cookies work great, but any

chocolate cookie (or homemade brownie!) will work fine.3. In separate bowls, combine vanilla frosting with green, yellow and red food coloring.

This is a perfect job for little ones.4. Slather on your "condiments" and enjoy!

http://www.chicagoparent.com/recipes/hamburger-cookies

April

Dirt Dessert Recipe

Stephanie Gallagher

This dirt dessert recipe is a great cooking activity for kids. Made with chocolate pudding, crushed Oreos and gummy worms, these pudding dirt cups are as fun for the kids to make, as they are tasty to eat.

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Total Time: 15 minutes

Yield: 10 servings

Ingredients:

2 cups cold milk 1 4-serving size package instant chocolate pudding 8 oz. frozen whipped topping (such as Cool Whip), thawed 1-1/2 cups crushed sandwich cookies (such as Oreos) 20 gummy worms

Preparation:

1. Whisk together milk and instant pudding for two minutes, until pudding is completely dissolved and. Let stand 5 minutes to thicken.

2. Stir in frozen whipped topping and 1/2 cup of the crushed cookies.

3. Spoon into 10 cups.4. Sprinkle remaining crushed cookies over the pudding mixture. Top with 2 gummy worms.5. Chill until ready to serve.

http://kidscooking.about.com/od/desserts/r/dirt_dessert.htm

Ingredients

Vegetable peelerKiwiSeedless watermelonFresh pineappleFlower-shaped cookie cutterMelon ballerGrapes and/or raspberriesThin wooden kitchen skewers

Directions

1. Use the vegetable peeler to remove the skin from the kiwi fruit, but leave the rind on the watermelon and the pineapple.

2. Slice off one rounded end of the watermelon so that you have a chunk about 3 inches thick and set it, cut side up, in a bowl.

3. Slice the rest of the melon, the fresh pineapple, and the kiwi into rings about 3/8- to 1/2-inch thick.

4. Use the cookie cutter to cut out flowers from the center of each melon and pineapple slice. Then, use the melon baller to carve out a small hole in the center of each flower.

5. If the flowers are juicy, blot them with paper towels. Then, set them on a flat surface and insert a grape or a raspberry into each center hole. Or, you can use a piece of kiwi fruit scooped from one of the slices with the melon baller.

6. With each flower, thread a wooden kitchen skewer up through one of the lower petals, then through the center fruit, and finally through the opposite petal.

7. "Plant" the flowers in the bowl by pushing the bottom of each skewer into the chunk of watermelon.

8. Finally, thread the kiwi slices onto skewers and add them to the bouquet.

http://family.go.com/food/recipe-585717-fruit-flower-bouquet-t/

February

Valentine Jellies

These Valentine jellies are so much fun and easy to make for toddlers and preschoolers. It makes a yummy Valentine treat!

What You Need:

1 packet of jelly crystals heart shaped muffin tray - or any mold bowl, whisk and small jug

What To Do:

1. Boil the kettle and get everything ready for your child to start "cooking"2. Allow the boiled water to cool slightly.3. Pour the jelly crystals into a bowl and then make the jelly as per the packet instructions.

Caution: An adult must add the hot water and child must be closely supervised while mixing the hot water into the jelly crystals. As an extra precaution use only enough hot water to dissolve the crystals and make up the rest with cold water.

4. Adult - jelly into small jug and let your child fill the molds.5. Place in fridge until set. Eat.

http://www.kids-crafts-fun-and-games.com/valentines-day-recipes.html

Valentine Fairy Bread

What would a Valentine's party be without delicious fairy bread?

This is so so easy and kids can pretty much do it on their own.

What You Need:

butter/margarine bread 100's and 1000's or sprinkles heart shaped cookie cutter

What To Do:

1. Butter the bread slices - not too thinly as the sprinkles might not stick.2. Sprinkle away.3. Cut out hearts with the cookie cutter.4. Save some for the party!

http://www.kids-crafts-fun-and-games.com/valentines-day-recipes.html

March

Yes, there really is potato in this classic Irish treat, though you'd never know by tasting. Rolled in coconut, these mini spud-shaped sweets make a perfect St. Patrick's Day dessert.

What you'll need

1 large potato Pinch of salt 2 tablespoons butter 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 4 to 5 cups confectioners' sugar 5 cups sweetened coconut flakes

How to make it

1. Peel the potato and boil it in water until soft. In a mixing bowl, mash the cooked potato with the salt and butter. Then -- this is key -- let it cool completely, or else it will melt the sugar when you add it.

2. Mix in the vanilla extract and 4 cups of sugar. At this point, the mixture should be stiff. If it isn't, add more sugar.

3. Sprinkle half of the coconut onto a waxed-paper-covered surface and turn the potato mixture onto it. Roll the batter until all of the coconut has been mixed in, then shape teaspoonfuls into small balls.

4. Roll the balls individually in the remaining coconut. Chill the finished candies until you're ready to serve them. Makes about 4 dozen.

http://spoonful.com/recipes/st-pats-potato-candy

O’Casey Punch

Ingredients:

1 (12 oz.) can frozen limeade concentrate, thawed 1 qt. lime sherbet 1 (2 L) bottle lemon-lime flavored soda 4 C crushed ice

Preparation:

1. Pour the limeade concentrate into a large punch bowl.2. Add the sherbet and stir until smooth and well combined.3. Pour the soda into the mixture and stir to combine.4. Gently stir in the crushed ice just before serving.

Serves: 12

http://www.apples4theteacher.com/holidays/st-patricks-day/kids-recipes/ocasey-punch.html

January

PUPPY CHOW (for people)

1 cup peanut butter 1/2 cup (1 stick) margarine 12 ounces chocolate chips

1 large box Crispix 2 1/2 cups confectioners sugar 1. Melt peanut butter, margarine and chocolate chips.2. Pour mixture over large box Crispix; coat well. 3. In a paper bag put 2 1/2 cups confectioners’ sugar.4. Add coated cereal. Shake well and pour onto wax paper.

http://www.kidactivities.net/category/Snacks-No-Bake-Recipes.aspx

Marshmallow Snowflakes

Ingredients

2 envelopes (each 1 scant tablespoon) unflavored gelatin 1 1/2 cups sugar 2/3 cup light corn syrup 1/8 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract Vegetable-oil cooking spray

Directions

1. Coat a 12-by-17-inch rimmed baking sheet with cooking spray; line with parchment paper. Spray parchment; set aside. Pour 1/3 cup cold water into the bowl of an electric mixer. Sprinkle with gelatin; let mixture soften, about 5 minutes.

2. Place sugar, corn syrup, salt, and 1/3 cup water in a medium saucepan. Cover; bring to a boil. Remove lid; cook, swirling pan occasionally, until syrup reaches 238 degrees (soft-ball stage) on a candy thermometer, about 5 minutes.

3. With mixer on low speed, whisk gelatin mixture, and slowly pour the syrup in a steady stream down the side of the bowl (to avoid splattering). Gradually raise speed to high; beat until mixture is thick, white, and has almost tripled in volume, about 12 minutes. Add vanilla, and beat 30 seconds to combine.

4. Pour mixture onto prepared baking sheet; smooth with an offset spatula. Let stand at room temperature, uncovered, until firm, at least 3 hours or overnight.

5. Coat a 1- or 2-inch snowflake-shaped cookie cutter with cooking spray to prevent it from sticking. Cut out as many individual marshmallows as possible; coat cutter with more spray as needed. Use marshmallows immediately or store in an airtight container at room temperature up to 1 week.

http://www.marthastewart.com/334710/marshmallow-snowflake

December

Holiday Snack Mix Aka "Elf Food"

Recipe byFood.com

Ingredients

10 ozs nestle toll house (holiday shapes and morsels)

9 cups crispix cereal 2 cups honey (roasted peanuts)

2 cups pretzels (goldfish shaped)

2 cups miniature marshmallows 20 ozs vanilla (candy coating almond bark)

Place the chocolate morsels in freezer to chill.

Mix cereal, peanuts, pretzels& marshmallows in large bowl; set aside.

Microwave candy coating in large microwavable bowl uncovered on High 90 seconds; stir to break up large chunks and then microwave about 30 seconds longer or until coating can be stirred smooth.

Quickly fold cereal mixture into coating with rubber spatula, stirring gently until evenly coated.

Stir in chilled chocolate morsels.

Spread on waxed paper and cool completely and break into chunks.

Store in air-tight container in a cool place.

http://www.yummly.com/recipe/external/Holiday-Snack-Mix-Aka-_elf-Food_-Recipezaar

Easy Hot Chocolate Recipe

Hot Chocolate

Stephanie Gallagher

Prep Time: 5 minutes

Cook Time: 10 minutes

Total Time: 15 minutes

Yield: 3-4 servings

Ingredients:

1 14 oz. can sweetened condensed milk 1/2 cup cocoa powder 1 tsp. pure vanilla extract 1/8 tsp. kosher salt 6-1/2 cups water

Preparation:

1. Whisk together sweetened condensed milk, cocoa powder, vanilla and salt in a medium saucepan over medium-low heat.

2. Whisk in water, about a cup at a time. Heat until warmed through, about 10 minutes. Note: Do not allow the hot chocolate to boil. It should just simmer until warmed through.

1. Crockpot Directions: Whisk together all ingredients. Pour into slow cooker. Heat on low 1-3 hours.

http://kidscooking.about.com/od/beverages/r/hot-chocolate.htm

August/September

Splat the Cat: Back to School, Splat! by Rob Scotton (Jun 28, 2011)

Back-to-School Rules (Carolrhoda Picture Books) by Laurie B. Friedman and Teresa Murfin (Sep 1, 2011)

Louise the Big Cheese and the Back-to-School Smarty-Pants by Elise Primavera and Diane Goode (Jul 19, 2011)

First Day Jitters by Julie Danneberg and Judith Dufour Love (Mar 2000)

If You Take a Mouse to School by Laura Numeroff and Felicia Bond (Jul 16, 2002)

Back to School by Andrew Clements (Aug 28, 2012)

Go Girl! #12: Back to School (Go Girl! (Feiwel & Friends)) by Meredith Badger and Ash Oswald (Sep 2, 2008)

Junie B. Jones and the Stupid Smelly Bus: 20th-Anniversary Full-Color Edition (A Stepping Stone Book(TM)) by Barbara Park and Denise Brunkus (Apr 24, 2012)

The Exceptionally, Extraordinarily Ordinary First Day of School by Albert Lorenz (Aug 1, 2010)

It's the First Day of School...Forever! by R.L. Stine (May 22, 2012)

October

The Night Before Halloween by Natasha Wing (Aug 16, 1999)

Halloween Is... by Gail Gibbons (May 2003)

Shake Dem Halloween Bones by W. Nikola-Lisa and Mike Reed (Aug 26, 2000)

The Best Halloween Ever by Barbara Robinson (Jul 25, 2006)

How Many Seeds in a Pumpkin? by Margaret McNamara and G. Brian Karas (Jul 10, 2007)

Pumpkin (Life Cycle of a) by Patricia Walsh and Ron Fridell (Aug 15, 2009)

How to Carve Freakishly Cool Pumpkins (Edge Books) by Sarah L. Schuette (Jan 2, 2011)

Three Pumpkin Pies for Three Good Neighbors by Jacqueline Rankine-Van Wassenhoven (Jan 22, 2009)

Pumpkins by Ken Robbins (Aug 8, 2006)

Pumpkins: A Story for a Field by Mary Lyn Ray and Barry Root (Aug 15, 1996)

November

Thanksgiving Is... by Gail Gibbons (Jul 2005)

If You Were At The First Thanksgiving by Anne Kamma and Bert Dodson (Nov 1, 2001)

Thanksgiving Rules by Laurie Friedman and Teresa Murfin (Sep 1, 2009)

Pilgrims Of Plymouth by Susan E. Goodman (Sep 1, 2001)

Squanto's Journey: The Story Of The First Thanksgiving (Turtleback School & Library Binding Edition) by Joseph Bruchac and Greg Shed (Nov 1, 2007)

North American Indians (Pictureback(R)) by Douglas Gorsline (Apr 12, 1978)

The Mayflower and the Pilgrims' New World by Nathaniel Philbrick (Oct 15, 2009)

Giving Thanks: The 1621 Harvest Feast by Kate Waters and Russ Kendall (Aug 2001)

This Is the Feast by Diane Z. Shore and Megan Lloyd (Aug 26, 2008)

The Littlest Pilgrim by Brandi Dougherty and Kirsten Richards (Oct 1, 2008)

December

The Polar Express by Chris Van Allsburg (Sep 28, 2009)

How the Grinch Stole Christmas! by Dr. Seuss (Oct 12, 1957)

Home for Christmas by Jan Brett (Nov 1, 2011)

Cajun Night Before Christmas (The Night Before Christmas Series) by "Trosclair", Howard Jacobs and James Rice (Sep 30, 1992)

Santa's Kwanzaa by Garen Eileen Thomas and Guy Francis (Sep 1, 2004)

The Trees of the Dancing Goats (Aladdin Picture Books) by Patricia Polacco (Oct 1, 2000)

The Year of the Perfect Christmas Tree: An Appalachian Story by Gloria Houston and Barbara Cooney (Oct 1, 1996)

The Best Christmas Pageant Ever by Barbara Robinson (Jun 6, 1997)

Secrets of a Christmas Box by Steven Hornby, Judy Reveal, Golriz Fanai and Justin Gerard (Sep 1, 2009)

A Little House Christmas: Holiday Stories From the Little House Books by Laura Ingalls Wilder and Garth Williams (Oct 5, 1995)

January

Snow by Cynthia Rylant and Lauren Stringer (Nov 1, 2008)

Sneezy the Snowman by Maureen Wright and Stephen Gilpin (Oct 1, 2010)

A Perfect Snowman by Preston McDaniels (Oct 23, 2007)

Sadie and the Snowman by Allen Morgan and Brenda Clark (Jun 1987)

The Hat by Jan Brett (Sep 29, 1997)

The Three Snow Bears by Jan Brett (Sep 13, 2007)

Jan Brett's Snowy Treasury by Jan Brett (Oct 5, 2009)

The Mitten 20th Anniversary Edition by Jan Brett (Oct 5, 2009)

Snow by Uri Shulevitz (Oct 16, 2012)

Animals in Winter (Let's-Read-and-Find... Science 1) by Henrietta Bancroft and Helen K. Davie (Dec 13, 1996)

February

Junie B. Jones and the Mushy Gushy Valentime (Junie B. Jones #14) by Barbara Park and Denise Brunkus (Dec 21, 1999

SpongeBob's Secret Valentine (Spongebob Squarepants) by David Lewman and Heather Martinez (Dec 23, 2003)

Presidents' Day by Anne Rockwell and Lizzy Rockwell (Dec 29, 2009)

The Yuckiest, Stinkiest, Best Valentine Ever by Brenda Ferber and Tedd Arnold (Dec 6, 2012

Presidents' Day (Our Country's Holidays) by Sheri Dean (Aug 15, 2010)

The Groundhog Day Book of Facts and Fun by Wendie C. Old and Paige Billin-Frye (Jan 1, 2004)

The Valentine's Day Robbery (Hank the Cowdog) by John R. Erickson (Oct 21, 2010)

Roses Are Dread, Violets Are Boo!: A Vampire Valentine Story by Michelle Poploff and Bill Basso (Dec 2001)

Happy Valentine's Day, Mouse! (If You Give...) by Laura Numeroff and Felicia Bond (Nov 24, 2009

Groundhog Day! by Gail Gibbons (Jul 30, 2007

Groundhog Weather School by Joan Holub and Kristin Sorra (Dec 24, 2009

March

In Like a Lion, Out Like a Lamb by Marion Dane Bauer and Emily Arnold McCully (Dec 19, 2011

The Night Before St. Patrick's Day (Reading Railroad) by Natasha Wing and Amy Wummer (Jan 22, 2009

The Story of Saint Patrick's Day by Patricia A. Pingry and Pamela R. Levy (Jan 2002

Face to Face with Lions (Face to Face with Animals) by Dereck Joubert and Beverly Joubert (Mar 9, 2010

African Lions (Pull Ahead Books) by Joelle Riley (Aug 1, 2007

Lambs (Cute and Cuddly: Baby Animals) by Katie Kawa (Aug 2011

How Do They Grow: Lamb to Sheep by Jillian Powell (Sep 20, 2001

Jeremy Bean's St. Patrick's Day by Alice Schertle and Linda Shute (Mar 1987

March (Months of the Year (Magic Wagon)) by Mari Kesselring and Brian Caleb Dumm (Sep 1, 2010

If I Were a Lion by Sarah Weeks and Heather M. Solomon (Jul 24, 2007

April

It's Spring by Susan Swan and Linda Glaser (Apr 1, 2002

H.D.Y.K. It's Spring? Pbk (Rookie Read-About Science) by Allan Fowler (Mar 1, 1992

Rain by Robert Kalan and Donald Crews (Apr 29, 1991

Down Comes the Rain (Let's-Read-And-Find... Science: Stage 2 (Pb)) by Franklyn Mansfield Branley and James Graham Hale (Sep 1, 1997

The Rain Came Down by David Shannon (Oct 1, 2000

April Showers by George Shannon and Various (Apr 14, 1995

April Showers (Children's chapter book with illustrated 24 pictures in colours) by Marbel, Jacob Young and George Lambert (Nov 19, 2012

April Fool, Phyllis! by Susanna Leonard Hill and Jeffrey Ebbeler (Apr 1, 2011

Everything Spring (Picture the Seasons) by Jill Esbaum (Feb 9, 2010

Scholastic Reader Level 2: Wake Me in Spring! by James Preller and Jeffrey Scherer (Feb 1, 1994

May

The Night Before Summer Vacation (Reading Railroad Books) by Natasha Wing and Julie Durrell (Apr 29, 2002

The Last Day of School by Louise Borden and Adam Gustavson (Mar 7, 2006

The Last Day of Kindergarten by Nancy Loewen and Sachiko Yoshikawa (Feb 1, 2011

The Best School Year Ever by Barbara Robinson (Apr 12, 2005

Last Day Blues by Julie Danneberg and Judith Dufour Love (Jan 30, 2006

How I Survived Middle School #8: It's All Downhill From Here by Nancy Krulik (Jan 1, 2009

Summer's Vacation by Lynn Plourde and Greg Couch (May 1, 2003

Oh, the Places You'll Go! by Dr. Seuss (Jan 22, 1990

Junie B. Jones Is a Graduation Girl (Junie B. Jones, No. 17) by Barbara Park and Denise Brunkus (May 8, 2001

Cam Jansen and The Graduation Day Mystery #31 by David A. Adler (Oct 13, 2011

August/ September

I AM(Tune: “Frere Jacques”)

I am __________,I am __________,That’s my name,That’s my name,I am glad to be here,I am glad to be here,At school today,At school today.

http://www.alphabet-soup.net/backtoschool/backtoschoolsong.html

Classroom Quilt

At the beginning of the year I like to have my students participate in an activity that will last the entire year. Each child receives a square made of material that they decorate according to a theme (such as Olympics) that includes their name. Those squares are then sewed together

to make a curtain, room divider, or wall hanging for the entire year! The last time I made one the students chose a state that started with the same letter as their name, researched the state, and included some information about that state through pictures. I completed the quilted curtain by sewing in some red and blue pieces to accent their white ones!

http://www.kimskorner4teachertalk.com/classmanagement/firstday.html

A Self-Portrait

Have each child draw a self-portrait. At the end of the year have them create another self-portrait. This is a good way to gauge student growth in skill, and interesting to see!

http://www.brighthubeducation.com/elementary-school-activities/47021-first-day-of-art-class-projects/

http://www.crafts-for-preschool-kids.com/uploads/8/3/1/1/8311173/2941649.jpg?396

Zip-a-dee-do-dah(First Day of School)

Thanks to Debbie for sending this in!

Zip-a-dee-do-dah, Zip-a-dee-ay-I'm excited because it's my first day!I'm gonna learn and I'm gonna play!Zip-a-dee-do-dah, Zip-a-dee-ay!

It is time for us to go, now.We're gonna ride the school bus-

Our new teacher's waiting for us!

Zip-a-dee-do-dah, Zip-a-dee-ay-Wonderful feeling, on my first day!

http://www.dltk-kids.com/school/mzipadee.htm

November

http://carsonlanding.myaptportal.com/files/2011/09/bean-leaf-craft.jpg

http://www.familyholiday.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/10/Thanksgiving-Craft-Ideas-for-Kids__26.jpg

Thanksgiving song Sung to: "Twinkle, Twinkle little star"

Thank you, thank you, very muchFor everything that I can touch.Thanks a lot for nature’s food.And for when I’m feeling good.Thank you, thank you very much.For moms and dads and friends and such.

http://simplesongs.blogs.com/head_shoulders_knees_and_/2006/11/thanksgiving_so.html

http://pinterest.com/pin/130111876704229581/

Indians and Pilgrims added 11-7-98 Original Author Unknown Sung to: "row, row, row your boat"

beat, beat, beat the drum,beat it loud and clear.to tell brave Indians everywherethat hunting time is near

cut, cut ,cut the logs,make them long and shortto help the pilgrims build a housea warm and friendly fort

http://www.preschooleducation.com/sthanksgiving.shtml

October

http://pinterest.com/pin/113364115591588678/

Ghost Cards

1. Cut out a wide ghost shape. Draw on eyes and smile. 2. Fold it accordion style. Then glue one side down on the inside of the card. Put glue on the

other end of the ghost and fold the card. Wait for glue to dry. 3. Open card.....Boo! 4. Add words/message.

http://www.littlefamilyfun.com/2011/10/pop-out-ghost-halloween-card.html

The Ghost Fingerplay added 7-29-98 Original Author Unknown

I saw a ghost (fingers circle eyes)He saw me too (point to yourself)I waved at him (wave your hand)But he said, "BOO!" (try to scare person next to you)

http://www.preschooleducation.com/shalloween.shtml

We are Pumpkins Big and Round added 7-29-98 Original Author Unknown

Sung to: "Mary Had a Little Lamb"

We are pumpkins big and round, big and round, big and round;We are pumpkins big and round, sitting on the ground.See our great big shiny eyes, shiny eyes, shiny eyes;See our great big shiny eyes, looking right at you.See our great big laughing mouth, laughing mouth, laughing mouth,See our great big laughing mouth, smiling right at you.

http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/bitesize/ks1/maths/division/worksheet_division_mine_medium.pdf

Three Black Cats added 9-28-98 Original Author Unknown

Sung to: "Three Blind Mice"

Three Black cats, three black cats,in black hats, in black hats.They all jumped into the Halloween brew,they teased the ghosts and the goblins too.Did you ever hear such a hullabalooon Halloween

http://downloads.bbc.co.uk/bitesize/ks1/maths/division/worksheet_division_mine_medium.pdf

December

Here Is The Chimney added 11-30-98 Original Author Unknown

Here is the chimney(Make fist, enclose thumb)Here is the top.(Palm of hand on top of fist)Open the lid.(Remove hand quickly)And out Santa will pop.(Pop up thumb)

http://www.preschooleducation.com/schristmas.shtml

Reindeer Pokey added 11-30-98 Original Author Unknown

Sung to: "The Hokey Pokey"

You put your antlers in. You put your antlers out.You put you antlers in and you shake them all about.You do the Reindeer Pokey and you turn yourself around.That's what it's all about!You put your hooves in....You put your red nose in....You put your fluffy tail in...You put your reindeer body in...

http://www.preschooleducation.com/schristmas.shtml

http://creativeconnectionsforkids.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/12-11-11_1943_edited-1-400x359.jpg

http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-TgFCQG6kXac/Tt_iimbOG2I/AAAAAAAABq8/SGjp4Jo85io/s320/winter-woderland-christmas-craft-photo-420-FF0107TREEA01.jpg

Grade: 4-6 • Age: 8-10 • Written by: Rebecca Engelman[Rebecca is an art educator at Cathedral School in Bismarck, ND.]

What You Need:

Variety of colored construction paper in shades of blue.

Assorted brown crayons. White tempera White glitter Paint brushes

What You Do:If possible, take students outside after a snowfall to observe how the snow sits on the upper side of the tree branches. Students should also observe how the tree is thick at the base (their own legs and stomachs),divides into smaller branches (like their arms), and then split again into smaller twigs (their fingers).

1. Have students choose a shade of blue paper for their background.2. Students draw trees on their blue paper starting at the bottom of the tree.

o Use a brown crayon and press hard. o Make the branches reach towards the sky.o Make sure that branches get smaller as they divide.o Select another shade of brown crayon and layer it over the first brown. (Gives the

tree a sense of texture)3. Use thick white tempera to paint snow on the top-side of the branches.4. Add snow to the ground, around the tree.5. You may use an old toothbrush dipped in white paint to spatter snowflakes on the

background.6. Quickly sprinkle white glitter on the wet tempera paint to make the "snow" glisten.

http://www.kinderart.com/painting/winterwonderland.shtml

January

Who is Made of Snow added 8-7-97 Original Author Unknown

Sung to: "Do your ears hang low?"

Who is made of snowWhen the temperature is low?Who stands outsideWhen The ground is cold and white?Who starts to meltWhen the warm sunshine is felt?Who is made of snow?

http://www.preschooleducation.com/swinter.shtml

Dance Around The Snowman added 11-30-98 Original Author Unknown

Sung to: "Mulberry Bush"

This is the way we dance around,Dance around,Dance around.This is the way we dance around,Our snowman in the morning.

*skip around*twirl around*crawl around*hop around*spin around*gallop around*sneak around*tip toe around

http://www.preschooleducation.com/swinter.shtml

Mix equal parts of shaving cream and Elmer's glue. The mixture dries puffy just like this.* Use your fingers to spread the shaving cream mixture and create your snowmen on blue cardstock.* Add cardstock pieces to form the eyes, nose, mouth, hat, and arms. (I used ribbon for the scarf.)http://www.oopseydaisyblog.com/2010/12/book-advent-day-9-snowmen-at-christmas.html

http://pinterest.com/pin/266064290457431073/

http://www.bing.com/images/search?q=crafts+for+winter&view=detail&id=CBB671DD0E878F7F60CFE927A0ABFCA9D2B188E3&first=376

February

http://pinterest.com/pin/14777504998731810/

http://pinterest.com/pin/400679698067338136/

http://pinterest.com/pin/280982464221191670/

A Shadow, A Shadow added 1-05-01 Original Author Unknown

Sung to: " a tisket,a tasket"

A shadow, a shadowLook for a shadowPop out of your hole and look aroundLook for a shadowMr. Groundhog, Mr. GroundhogCome out of hidingLook at the sky and look for cloudsHow much longer till spring?

http://www.preschooleducation.com/sgroundhog.shtml

It's Shadow Time! added 8-7-97 Original Author Unknown

Sung to: "Itsy-bitsy Spider"

The Furry Little GroundhogGoes in his hole to sleepThrough the cold winter'sSnow and Ice so deep!In FebruaryHe stretches to and froDoes the furry little groundhogGet scared by his shadow?

http://www.preschooleducation.com/sgroundhog.shtml

H-E-A-R-T added 8-7-97 Original Author Unknown

Sung to: "B-I-N-G-O"

To show you like your special friends,Just give them each a heart.H-E-A-R-T, H-E-A-R-T, H-E-A-R-TEach heart says I like you!

http://www.preschooleducation.com/svalentine.shtml

March

http://www.signingtime.com/blog/2012/02/march-hand-y-crafts-in-like-a-lion-out-like-a-lamb/

http://images.search.yahoo.com/images/view;_ylt=A0PDoYCeMb5QTm0AwzyJzbkF;_ylu=X3oDMTBlMTQ4cGxyBHNlYwNzcgRzbGsDaW1n?back=http%3A%2F%2Fimages.search.yahoo.com%2Fsearch%2Fimages%3Fp%3Din%2Blike%2Ba%2Blion%2Band%2Bout%2Blike%2Ba%2Blamb%2Bcraft%26fr%3Dyfp-t-701-s%26fr2%3Dpiv-web%26tab%3Dorganic%26ri%3D9&w=420&h=420&imgurl=familyfun.go.com%2Fassets%2Fcms%2Fcrafts%2Flion-lamb-holder-craft-photo-420-FF0307EFEA01.jpg&rurl=http%3A%2F%2Fnortheastquadrant.blogspot.com%2F2010%2F03%2Ffierce-march-lion-still-roars.html&size=84.9+KB&name=march+doesn+t+seem+to+be+ending+like+a+lamb+does+it+with+major+...&p=in+like+a+lion+and+out+like+a+lamb+craft&oid=736f9db6b8f14cb33ca5f280fdbc356b&fr2=piv-web&fr=yfp-t-701-s&tt=march%2Bdoesn%2Bt%2Bseem%2Bto%2Bbe%2Bending%2Blike%2Ba%2Blamb%2Bdoes%2Bit%2Bwith%2Bmajor%2B...&b=0&ni=84&no=9&ts=&tab=organic&sigr=12g4pt3l5&sigb=143ck8g8l&sigi=12khc36cs&.crumb=MTjbTkX4S50

http://images.search.yahoo.com/images/view;_ylt=A0PDoYCeMb5QTm0AwzyJzbkF;_ylu=X3oDMTBlMTQ4cGxyBHNlYwNzcgRzbGsDaW1n?back=http%3A%2F%2Fimages.search.yahoo.com%2Fsearch%2Fimages%3Fp%3Din%2Blike%2Ba%2Blion%2Band%2Bout%2Blike%2Ba%2Blamb%2Bcraft%26fr%3Dyfp-t-701-s%26fr2%3Dpiv-web%26tab%3Dorganic%26ri%3D9&w=420&h=420&imgurl=familyfun.go.com%2Fassets%2Fcms%2Fcrafts%2Flion-lamb-holder-craft-photo-420-FF0307EFEA01.jpg&rurl=http%3A%2F%2Fnortheastquadrant.blogspot.com%2F2010%2F03%2Ffierce-march-lion-still-roars.html&size=84.9+KB&name=march+doesn+t+seem+to+be+ending+like+a+lamb+does+it+with+major+...&p=in+like+a+lion+and+out+like+a+lamb+craft&oid=736f9db6b8f14cb33ca5f280fdbc356b&fr2=piv-web&fr=yfp-t-701-s&tt=march%2Bdoesn%2Bt%2Bseem%2Bto%2Bbe%2Bending%2Blike%2Ba%2Blamb%2Bdoes%2Bit%2Bwith%2Bmajor%2B...&b=0&ni=84&no=9&ts=&tab=organic&sigr=12g4pt3l5&sigb=143ck8g8l&sigi=12khc36cs&.crumb=MTjbTkX4S50

March... added 4-5-99 Original Author Unknown

Sung to: "Mary Had a Little Lamb"

March comes in like a lion, like a lion, like a lionMarch comes in like a lion and goes out like a lamb.

March comes in with a great big wind,Great big wind, great big wind.March comes in with a great big wind,And goes out with a breeze.

http://www.preschooleducation.com/smarch.shtml

Can't Catch Me added 2-25-98 Original Author Unknown

Sung to: "Skip to my Lou"

Can't, can't, can't Catch me!Can't, can't, can't Catch me!Can't, can't, can't Catch me!For I'm wearing green, you see!

http://www.preschooleducation.com/spatrick.shtml

April

http://images.search.yahoo.com/images/view;_ylt=A0PDoKsvM75Q1HIABIuJzbkF;_ylu=X3oDMTBlMTQ4cGxyBHNlYwNzcgRzbGsDaW1n?back=http%3A%2F%2Fimages.search.yahoo.com%2Fsearch%2Fimages%3Fp%3Dapril%2Bshowers%2Bcrafts%26sado%3D1%26n%3D30%26ei%3Dutf-8%26fr%3Dyfp-t-701-s%26fr2%3Dsg-gac%26tab%3Dorganic%26ri%3D73&w=450&h=338&imgurl=user56273.websitewizard.com%2Fimages%2FApril-Crafts%2Ffinish-decorating_small.JPG&rurl=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ottogo.com%2Fapril-2010-sequencing-pictures-april-showers-brings-umbrellas.html&size=41.3+KB&name=April+2010-+Sequencing+Pictures-+April+Showers+Bring+---+UMBRELLAS+...&p=april+showers+crafts&oid=2fa8c46fb7c8f2a0de22e237f1a4d4fd&fr2=sg-gac&fr=yfp-t-701-s&tt=April%2B2010-%2BSequencing%2BPictures-%2BApril%2BShowers%2BBring%2B---%2BUMBRELLAS%2B...&b=61&ni=84&no=73&ts=&tab=organic&sigr=12o4ej333&sigb=144chpo4s&sigi=12b1v6sjr&.crumb=MTjbTkX4S50

http://images.search.yahoo.com/images/view;_ylt=A0PDoX57N75Qfi4AdYOJzbkF;_ylu=X3oDMTBlMTQ4cGxyBHNlYwNzcgRzbGsDaW1n?back=http%3A%2F%2Fimages.search.yahoo.com%2Fsearch%2Fimages%3Fp%3Dapril%2Bshowers%2Bcrafts%26sado%3D1%26n%3D30%26ei%3Dutf-8%26fr%3Dyfp-t-701-s%26fr2%3Dsg-gac%26tab%3Dorganic%26ri%3D73&w=300&h=400&imgurl=cdn.blogs.babble.com%2Ftoddler-times%2Ffiles%2Fspringcrafts%2F06.jpg&rurl=http%3A%2F%2Fblogs.babble.com%2Ftoddler-times%2F2012%2F03%2F22%2F10-spring-themed-craft-projects-for-your-toddler%2F&size=21.9+KB&name=Check+Out+the+Spring+Time+Craft+at+Toddler+Craft%21&p=april+showers+crafts&oid=fbe71ad4ab2e6a114dba4d473a1aaff5&fr2=sg-gac&fr=yfp-t-701-s&tt=Check%2BOut%2Bthe%2BSpring%2BTime%2BCraft%2Bat%2BToddler%2BCraft%2521&b=61&ni=84&no=73&ts=&tab=organic&sigr=132lbhk9j&sigb=144chpo4s&sigi=11sp8c73k&.crumb=MTjbTkX4S50

http://donotbreakthedog.blogspot.com/2012/05/random.html

Rain is FallingTo the tune of "Are You Sleeping?"

Rain is falling, rain is falling,All around, all around,Pitter, patter, raindrops,Pitter, patter, raindrops,Hit the ground.Hit the ground.

http://www.theholidayzone.com/spring/songs.html

Bambi Soundtrack 4. Little April Shower

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kCni2Z87hbs

May

Homemade Bubbles and Bubble Blower

Materials Needed for Bubbles:

1/2 cup Dish soap 1 1/2 cups Water 2 teaspoons Sugar Medium sized mixing bowl or cup Spoon Sealed container (jar with lid)

Materials Needed for Bubble Blower:

1 Drinking straw (2 if you cut the pop holder into smaller parts) 1 six pack pop holder plastic thing (the six ring things that go around the pop cans) Scotch tape Bowl or pan (to pour bubbles into) Scissors, optional

Instructions for Bubbles:

Mix all 3 ingredients together. Don't stir or shake too much.

Store in a sealed container. Lasts forever (we've always used it up without ever having any

trouble with it going bad).

Instructions for the Bubble Blower:

Tape the holder to the straw.

Pour bubbles into bowl or pan.

Dip into bubbles and twirl around. Makes LOTS of BIG bubbles.

You can cut the pop can holder ring thing into two 2's (the middle 2 will be wasted) and make

two (I have two kids... Can you tell *grin*)

http://www.dltk-kids.com/crafts/recipes/bubbles.htm

ALL PAPER VERSION:

Made by Rylan, age 18 months

Materials:

dinner plate or margarine lid (must fit on a piece of construction paper) pencil, yellow and orange construction paper. scissors, glue or glue stick markers Optional: wiggly eyes and pom pom nose.

Instructions:

Use a pencil to trace a dinner plate onto a piece of yellow construction paper. This will be the inside circle of your sunshine.

Cut out the circle around the line you traced (this can be done by an adult prior to craft time if you are working with a group of small children).

Trace the child's hand onto yellow construction paper 4 to 8 times and cut them out. o The number of handprints you need depends on the size of the plate you used and

the size of your child's hand.o You should have enough prints to go around the plate without overlapping them

too much. Glue the yellow handprints around the circle without overlapping them too much. Trace the child's hand onto orange construction paper the same number of times as you

did with the yellow.

Glue the orange handprints behind the yellow ones, staggering them so the orange peeks out between the yellow (that was more complicated to explain than it is to do *laugh*... just peek at the picture at the top of this page to see what it looks like).

Draw a face on the plate using markers using store bought wiggly eyes if you like

http://www.dltk-holidays.com/summer/msun.htm

Oh, Mr. Sun, Sun, Mr. Golden Sun,Please shine down on me.Oh Mr. Sun, Sun, Mr. Golden Sun,Hiding behind a treeThese little children are asking youTo please come out so we can play with you.Oh Mr. Sun, Sun, Mr. Golden Sun,Please shine down on,please shine down on,Please shine down on me!

http://www.dltk-teach.com/rhymes/mr-sun/song.htm

Schools out for the summer

http://www.dltk-teach.com/rhymes/mr-sun/song.htm

http://www.google.com/imgres?q=homemade+proud+of+you+cards&um=1&hl=en&tbo=d&qscrl=1&rlz=1T4TSHB_enUS288US288&biw=1280&bih=656&tbm=isch&tbnid=EzW53MNjj2rn4M:&imgrefurl=http://ca.shine.yahoo.com/blogs/at-home/schools-10-homemade-graduation-gifts-191200525.html&docid=RrUVVgXmetwt2M&imgurl=http://l3.yimg.com/bt/api/res/

1.2/9.NfJCpMsIUIz4pi7NFD0Q--/YXBwaWQ9eW5ld3M7cT04NTt3PTMxMA--/http://media.zenfs.com/en-US/blogs/partner/470_2368572.0&w=310&h=207&ei=NhXAUMjUMIrxygHk44DoCQ&zoom=1&iact=hc&dur=6374&sig=102819597978975784147&page=1&tbnh=131&tbnw=202&start=0&ndsp=29&ved=1t:429,r:2,s:0,i:89&tx=148&ty=65&vpx=397&vpy=135&hovh=165&hovw=248

The students will make cards for the kindergarten graduation and give them to a graduating kindergartener.

August/September

Have the students make a “Welcome to Our School” card for the new kindergartners.

Have an assembly on the first day with the students sharing what they feel are important things to know about the school.

Missy Fuller & Amanda Fuller

October

Rake and pick up leaves on around the school grounds.

Allow the students form a parade in their Halloween costumes and walk to the local business within walking distances.

Myself

November

Have the each student pick a teacher from another class, once the student has their teacher in mind have the students write a note to that teacher telling them why they are thankful for them.

Have the students write “Thank You” cards to deliver to community helpers; such as fire and police departments thanking them for the job they do.

Missy Fuller

December

Have the students collect toys that are in good condition ( new or used) and then have the students write a letter or draw a picture to children in a children’s home.

Have a can food drive to donate to a local food pantry.

Missy Fuller

January

Have students become a peer tutor/a buddy to a student in a lower grade or a new student.

Hold a book sale with old books collected in the classroom, with the proceeds to be donated to a non charitable organization.

Sharon Fuller

February

Have the students write a letter to the president thanking s/he for the job they are doing, then mail the letters.

Host a Read-A-Thon like a Math-A-Thon with the proceeds going to the children’s wing of the hospital or to children in need within the community.

Myself

March

Create a school wide Kindness Chain- when a student catches another student or teacher doing something kind have the student write down the name of the individual and that they were caught doing. Then create a chain, at the end of the month start at the front door of the school and see how far the chain reaches.

Invite city workers/ officials into the classroom to share what they do in the community.

Myself

April

Host a parents day. Have the students introduce their parents and allow the parents to tell the class what their job is. Before the parents sit down have the student tell the class what their parent means to them. ( Make sure to have a lot of tissues) .

Align with the local nursing home having the elderly people who can still write become a pen pal with a student in the class.

Missy and Candy Fuller

May

Hold a school drive for the next year. Allow the students to bring in school supplies to be used the next year for students who cannot afford all the supplies.

Place a program where students have the opportunity to help a teacher one day.

Dawn Segovia and Stephanie Floyd

August/ September

As a class we will play the name game to get to know each others name.

MOTION NAME GAME: Have everyone stand in a circle. Anyone can begin the game by saying his/her name and demonstrating a [physical] motion to go with it. When the person is done, the entire group repeats the name and the motion. Then, the second person (on either side of the first) introduces him/herself and does a motion. The entire group repeats that name/motion and then the first name/motion. This will continue until each person has given their name and done their motion, and the entire group has repeated everyone’s name and motions.

http://www.residentassistant.com/games/namegames/motionnamegame.htm

October

Field Trip:

Visit a local Pumpkin Patch and allow the students to pick a pumpkin.

Guest Speaker:

Invite the local pumpkin patch owner to talk to the students about what is required to grow a pumpkin.

Activity:

Have the students plant a pumpkin seed. In their science journal have the students record their observations.

Have the students use a Venn- Diagram to compare and contrast the life cycle of a pumpkin and an animal of their choice.

Class:

Have a class pumpkin and allow each student write their name and what they want to be when they grow up.

November

Field Trip:

A virtual field trip to the first Thanksgiving.

http://www.scholastic.com/scholastic_thanksgiving/webcast.htm

Activity:

Have the students in groups of 3-4 construct their own Mayflower using material collected as a class.

Split the class up into two groups; one group being the Native Americans and the other group being the new settlers. Allow each group to do some research on how their group made an impact on the first Thanksgiving. Allow the students to research for a week, the week before the break allow the class to visit another class and put on a short skit on their interpretation of the first Thanksgiving.

Have each student write a short page with a picture on one family tradition their family has for Thanksgiving. Once every student has turned in their paper and picture have the book bound for a class book.

Have the students write a letter to their parents/guardians telling them why they are thankful for them.

December

Activity:

Have the students make a Venn Diagram using the Holiday tradition they celebrate compared to another. Exp: Christmas compared to Hanukah.

The students will make Holiday cards to send over seas the service men and women.

Field Trip:

After the class has collected all the toys, plan a trip to the children’s home to deliver the gifts to the very special children in need.

After the can goods are collected have the students not only visit a food pantry but allow the students work the pantry for an hour.

Class:

Send a note home to the parents asking them to dress their child in nice clothes on a particular day for a class picture. On the day decided invite a photographer to the class to talk about their career. See if s/he will not take a class picture. If the photographer agrees make each student a “Happy Holiday” card using the picture.

January

Field Trip:

If the local library is within walking distance, take a field trip to the library.

Activity:

Allow the students to build a virtual snowman.

http://www.sun-sentinel.com/broadband/theedge/sfl-edge-a-snowman,0,3635913.flash

Have the supplies available for the students to watch the following video and record the directions. Once the directions are recorded allow the students to make their own snow in groups of two.

http://www.metacafe.com/watch/959459/make_it_snow_incredible_science/

Guest Speaker:

Contact an author months in advance and arrange a day in the month of January for them to come and speak to the class.

February

Field Trip:

Virtual Field trip to the White House.

http://fbg.nfsmi.org/Default.aspx?list=97597724-faa7-4033-8f85-54e69ef5c069&title=5e3bdc7c-c018-4c14-8f71-2398ac95cf16

Activities:

Have the students chose a president that is still alive and write a letter to that president. In the letter should be sections of saying thank you and the rest can be about the student or questions to the former president.

Map out a trip to Pennsylvania so you can watch the ground hog. Make sure to give complete directions from our school to PA.

Make valentines to send to a local hospital of long term patience.

Have a Valentine’s day party show the following clip.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gKKik5zZxF4

March

Activities:

Have the supplies need to make wind chimes for each student. Students will take the wind chimes home and will record when it is the windiest at their house. These will be made on the last day of April so on March 1 we can decide if March came in like a lion or a lamb.

Plant a class pot of gold. Have each student bring in or write down something that they really enjoyed or something that they learned this year. Bury the box outside on the school grounds and have the current class make a map to get to the gold for the class to come.

Each day watch a short clip on ED the lion.

http://www.ustream.tv/new#/new

Guest Speaker:

Contact the forestry and see if Smokey the Bear or a representative can come to the classroom and talk to the students about the safety and hazards of burning with March winds.

Field Trip:

Plan a trip to the Zoo. Arrange so a zoologist can speak to the class bout the lions and the lambs. Once back to the class the students will decide which one they are more like and why.

April

Activities:

Make it rain experiment.

http://www.weatherwizkids.com/experiments-make-rain.htm

Using the rain sticks the students made as a class the students will perform a simple song using the rain sticks.

Start the month out showing this video.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TdBG21XbxXk

Venn diagram of Spring compared to another season.

Have the students in groups of 4-5 make a dharma of a spring day.

May

Guest Speaker:Invite a couple students from the grade ahead of your classes to your classroom. Have the

older students explain to the students what they will be doing and what will be expected of them.

Activities:

Have the students make a class book about their year in your class.

Attend the Kindergarten graduation and cheer on the new first graders, because to them its awesome for older kids to cheer for them.

Hold a class meeting in the class meeting go around and let each student tell the class what their summer break plans are.

Field Trip:

The teacher makes a picnic for the class, takes the class to the park and sits on a big blanket as a class one last time and has lunch. Then allow the students to play.