Bring a little extra gratitude into your Thanksgiving by creating a Wall of Thanks. Everyone writes things they are grateful for on sticky notes and adds them to the wall. Smaller children can contribute by drawing pictures with an adult writing what they are thankful for. Then share them outloud at the end of your meal. Print the picture below to hang on the wall if you wish. Share a photo of your wall in the comments!
May everyone have a wonderful and safe Thanksgiving weekend!
In my home we always had a box of “house toys” tucked away in a closet (to avoid conflict.) It came out whenever a child was visiting (who was not invited by my child.) I did not expect my child to share her toys with someone she did not know, like and trust. I, and all adults, only share with other adults we love and trust so why would we expect our child to share with a strange child?
The house toy box contained crayons, papers, stickers, blocks, puzzles, trains, balls, and one or two construction sets (Lincoln logs, Lite-Brite, etc.) that could be used by the visitors and my child. She was not expected to share her toys unless she chose to do so.
If, however, she invited a friend to our home the expectation was different. She was expected to share her stuff. Before the friend arrived I would have her put away anything special and /or fragile that she wanted to protect.
Mom and Dad – just remember we only have to share with those we love and trust. It is only fair to give the same choice to your child.
Two bowls, one with a small sponge and some water. Ask your child to use the sponge to transfer the water from bowl to bowl.
Next try transferring water with a baster.
Skill Building: Fine Motor Skills, Hand/Finger Strength and Coordination
Here are a some of our favorite websites on how to create a Montessori environment for your child. These will provide inspiration on ways to set up your home as well as comprehensive lists of activities for children of all ages.
http://amshq.org/Family-Resources/Montessori-at-Home