If a picture is worth a thousand words, what does that make a puzzle worth? Puzzles are wonderful learning tools without even appearing as such. Children love to piece together puzzles at almost any age, from toddlers through the teen years and into adulthood. The benefits of “puzzling” are innumerable, but here are a few areas that puzzles really shine.
Bells are ringing across the country, in classes (and homes) as children make their way back to school for another year. As a parent, I want to give my child the best possible chance at a successful school year. Being actively involved in my child’s experiences at school by volunteering and assisting, as well as being a physical presence around the school, are great ways to take an active role in my son’s education. I also like to find things to supplement classroom learning and bring it home as well.
On a lighter (scented) note… have you ever wondered how they make cosmetics and perfumes? The Creative Cosmetics kit explains the “Science of Skin Care.” Not only does this kit explain skin, nail, and hair care, it gives a broad “foundation” of dermatology and the chemistry of oils, gels and lotions. Your kids will get to create their own formulas with the cosmetic bases and natural ingredients you purchase from your local store. Kids learn hygiene and safety are essential for proper skin care, as well as how to apply their creations to their lips, eyes, face, and body. Learn the basics of beautiful, radiant skin!
You have probably noticed that “Going Green” is all the rage right now with celebrities and major corporations. Meanwhile, we regular Joes and Josephines have been doing our part in reducing, re-using, recycling, and composting without cameras following us around (thank goodness). Think about what you are doing to help conserve Mother Earth. What do your kids know about being conservative with electricity and water? Do they know about renewable and non-renewable resources?
For those hot, sunny summer days, water toys help beat the heat. Hook the water toys up to the gardening hose and open the gates - all the kids in your neighborhood will want to play. One of our quick sellers is the Beach Blast Ball. It’s huge and it sprays in every direction known to man. Also, the Wigglin Water sprinkler keeps kids active and running around and waters the lawn for you! Less work for Mom and Dad already! Just don’t forget the sunscreen, you don’t need lobsters as children.
Just because the kids get a break from going to school doesn’t mean that they also need a break from learning! Everyone knows that reading is fundamental - kids need to know that reading is fun too. Keep your kids reading over their summer break and this will ensure that your children will retain reading and learning skills needed to start the next school year off right.
As a preschool teacher to four year-olds, I’m intrigued with one of Wonderbrains’ new products, Alpharings. Alpharings are designed by Educational Insights, an educational product company that has a 50 year history of providing hands-on activities to reinforce early learning skills. Alpharings come with 130 adjustable plastic illustrated rings (five of each letter) and an instructional guide.
Yesterday, we set our Painted Lady butterflies free. It has been a wonderful few weeks with them, but it was time. The new caterpillars will be here in a couple of days, and we need to get the “garden” ready for them!
