WonderBrains Educational Toys Weblog

Fun Frugal Finds In Your Neighborhood!

Judy — Fri, 09 May 2008 12:46:37 +0000

Every summer, I feel the squeeze of my wallet as requests for summer camps, sport clinics and other activities come flooding through my door. This year, I have sought out some not-so-costly ways to entertain my kids and make their summer just as much fun as that $60 ticket to Sea World.

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Make A Family Tree

Judy — Wed, 07 May 2008 11:13:52 +0000

A few weeks ago, our cub scout troop created a simple project which has spurred a great deal of interest for my 8 year-old. We made a simple family tree. Each child traced his arm and hand on a large sheet of paper and colored the shape brown (for the tree trunk and branches). Then, leaves were cut out of green construction paper. Family members’ names and birthdates were recorded on each leaf, then as a family, we placed each leaf on our tree. My son and his brother are at the base of the tree, while his great-grandparents are at the very top. It is an amazing, visual representation of our family, and it hangs on our playroom door for all to see. Simple to make, and a hot topic of conversation for all who visit!

Thinking Inside The Box

Judy — Mon, 05 May 2008 18:37:42 +0000

Summertime is just around the corner, and my second grader will be a newly-appointed third grader. Summer, for us, means swimming, sleepovers, and a bit of educational “stuff” to keep us on our toes.

One of my favorite activities to do with my boys is so simple, it is amazing that I don’t try it year-round. For the summer, I set up several “themed” boxes. These boxes are self-contained learning centers that can travel with us, be stored on a shelf or in a closet, and cost virtually nothing for me to set up. We love to pull out a box on a rainy day or when we’re not feeling our best. And, when my little guy is napping, we usually find time for the boxes then as well! I typically use plastic lidded bins, but shoe boxes would work as well. The idea is to find things to use in a different way that will be fun and enjoyable while still promoting my child’s educational needs during the long break.

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CPSC Recalls

Judy — Mon, 05 May 2008 02:31:53 +0000

1. Nintendo Recalls Lapel Pins Due to Risk of Lead Exposure

2. Children’s Storage Bins Sold at Lowe’s Stores Recalled Due to Violation of Lead Paint Standard

May 5 - 9 is Teacher Appreciation Week!

Judy — Fri, 02 May 2008 21:16:22 +0000

She is the one who taught your son to subtract. He is the person who helps your daughter with her understanding of science concepts. She is the constant influence of a love of learning in your child’s life. And, it is time to honor that special person. Next week, May 5 - 9, is Teacher Appreciation Week! Here are some simple ways to tell your child’s teacher how much he or she is appreciated. (more…)

Meeting Children At Their Level = Success

Judy — Thu, 01 May 2008 00:36:02 +0000

Jenna* is a child in my pre-k class. She is your typical just-turned-5-year-old - curious, sweet, full of energy. Jenna comes from a strong family unit with a brother who probably tests off the IQ scale, a dad who is a high school math teacher, and a mom who is a nurse. Jenna is in crisis.

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Recycled Projects

Judy — Mon, 28 Apr 2008 19:27:01 +0000

My second grader came home last week with a small note stapled to his take-home folder. It seems that a project is to be created for a parade his class is having. This project could be an instrument, a flag or a banner, but the idea is to make the entire thing from recycled materials. Use things that you would normally get rid of in a new way. (more…)

Check Out What’s New - Alpharings!

Judy — Fri, 25 Apr 2008 11:56:05 +0000

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.

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Butterfly, Butterfly, Fly Away Home

Judy — Wed, 23 Apr 2008 20:16:38 +0000

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!

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EARTH DAY 2008

Judy — Mon, 21 Apr 2008 20:29:37 +0000

April 22nd is Earth Day! In actuality, every day should be Earth Day as we strive to make our environment a better place for everyone and everything. Here are some fun, quick, and easy activities you can try with your child in celebration of our Earth:

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