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Putting The Pretty In Preschool

Finding Beauty In Everyday Early Childhood Experiences

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Annette Kaminsky

“Go Fishing” Sensory Tray

July 27, 2023 by Annette Kaminsky Leave a Comment

Use toy fishing rods and accessories for a super fun "Go Fishing" active world tray. Add ocean-themed loose parts to extend play.
Use toy fishing rods and accessories for a super fun "Go Fishing" active world tray. Add ocean-themed loose parts to extend play.

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This easy-to-set-up “Go Fishing” sensory tray allows your little learners to have a blast catching and transferring fish, and exploring related ocean-themed loose parts. And there are plenty of opportunities for learning in this hands-on, play-based activity.

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Follow me on Pinterest for more early learning ideas.

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Supplies To Collect

An ocean-themed loose part collection for a super fun "Go Fishing" active world tray. your early learners will love.

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To give your little charges a super fun, ocean-themed sensory experience, gather the following:

  • water table or active world tray
  • toy fishing sets
  • sea jelly dive toys
  • miniature ocean creatures
  • fish-themed fillable eggs
  • bowl with marbles
  • four hot dog baskets
  • strainer
  • shells
  • punch bowl

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The “Go Fishing” Sensory Tray

Fishing sets and ocean-themed loose parts are featured in this super fun "Go Fishing" active world tray your early learners will love.

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To set up this inviting, sea creature-filled sensory tray, start out by setting a non-breakable punch bowl in the center of an active world tray. Fill the bowl with water.

Then set fish from a few inexpensive toy fishing sets in a basket, and spread a few others around the punch bowl.

Tip: Dollar stores are a great place to find many of the supplies in this post.

Next, fill the other baskets with sea jelly dive toys, miniature ocean creatures, and sea creature-themed fillable eggs.

Note: Hot dog baskets are a perfect size for the activity.

Lastly, add toy fishing rods along with a bowl with marbles and a strainer with shells.

Setting up a sensory tray couldn’t be any easier. And I’m sure your little learners will dive right in.

Use toy fishing rods and accessories for a super fun "Go Fishing" active world tray. Add ocean-themed loose parts to extend play.

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Variations Of This Sensory Activity

If you have access to a water table, fill it with water and drop in all the supplies. Your little charges can transfer fish to baskets and explore the fillable eggs, sea jelly dive toys, miniature ocean creatures, marbles, and shells.

And adding mini fishing nets would be great for scooping up toy sea jellies. Including more strainers would be nice too.

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Benefits Of The “Go Fishing” Sensory Tray

Aside from being just plain fun, this fishing game sensory tray allows young children to:

  • develop eye-hand coordination
  • practice transferring objects from one place to another
  • sort fish and sea jelly dive toys by color
  • count all the fish they catch
  • label and discuss many different ocean creatures
  • learn that fish hatch from eggs

Can you think of anything to add to this sensory activity? Share in a comment below.

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Related:

Ocean Playdough Tray

Octopus Theme Activities

Sea Star Activities

Saving Green Sea Turtles

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[Read more…] about “Go Fishing” Sensory Tray

Filed Under: ocean, preschool, sensory, summer Tagged With: fish, octopus, sensory tray, water play

Space Restaurant Dramatic Play

July 18, 2023 by Annette Kaminsky Leave a Comment

Metallic silver and gold parts shine in this space restaurant dramatic play center your little learners will love to explore.
Metallic silver and gold parts shine in this space restaurant dramatic play center your little learners will love to explore.

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A space restaurant dramatic play center is one of the most fun pretend play activities you can offer your little learners. Loose parts shine in this center, offering a plethora of opportunities for creativity and imagining.

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Follow me on Pinterest for more early learning ideas.

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Supplies To Collect

Break out all the metallic silver and gold loose parts you have for this shiny, inviting dramatic play center. The following are ideas for supplies to gather:

Gather a variety of metallic silver and gold loose parts to set up a space restaurant dramatic play center.

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  • aluminum foil pie pans, tart pans, and storage containers
  • silver muffin pans
  • metal pitcher, tongs, bowls, and trays
  • disposable clear stemware, forks, and spoons
  • reusable star-shaped ice cubes
  • gold and silver bead necklaces and garland
  • clear discs
  • gold star-shaped stickers
  • round silver and gold gem stickers
  • metallic silver pipe cleaners
  • juice lids
  • styrofoam balls
  • large silver or gold bells
  • foil alphabet letters and spray centerpiece
  • silver tablecloth
  • glue gun, scissors, and painter’s tape

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The Space Restaurant Dramatic Play Center

In this out-of-this-world pretend play center, the words “Space Restaurant” are tacked on a wall with painter’s tape, and aluminum foil pans and storage containers are displayed beneath it for decoration and ambiance.

SIlver foil letters and aluminum foil containers and pans taped on a wall add ambiance to a space restaurant dramatic play center.

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A space-themed dining table is set up by adding a metallic silver tablecloth and a foil spray centerpiece.

Table settings include aluminum pie pan plates and transparent cutlery. Clear, disposable stemware glasses are decorated with gold star stickers to fancy them up.

Gold star stickers positioned on clear stemware add flare to a space restaurant dramatic play center.

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Dainty teacups are created by gluing metallic silver pipe cleaner handles to aluminum foil tart pans, and then affixing them to metal juice lids.

DIY aluminum foil teacups for a space restaurant dramatic play center.

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Shiny, metal serving trays and star-shaped dessert cups add elegance.

Large silver or gold bells make great pretend muffins and add a musical element.

Large silver ingle bells are repurposed as muffins in a space restaurant dramatic play center.

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Clear discs are repurposed as space pancakes.

Clear discs are repurposed as pancakes in a space restaurant dramatic play center.

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Pretend play chocolate chip cookies are created by adding round silver and gold gem stickers to juice lids.

Round adhesive gem stickers added to juice lids make great chocolate chip cookies in a space restaurant pretend play center.

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Styrofoam balls are muffins or snowball-themed desserts. They can be painted with silver or gold acrylic paint to add glitz.

Gold and silver bead necklaces cut into strips are spaghetti noodles, and larger bead balls cut from bead garland are the meatballs. The play spaghetti can be stored in a big silver bowl and served with metal tongs.

Metallic silver and gold loose parts make great play food for a space restaurtant dramatic play center.

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More Space-Themed Play

For additional space-themed ambiance, a colored light can be positioned to illuminate the restaurant table.

A professional stage light adds flare in outer space pretend play tablescape set up.

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Early learners may be inspired to add loose parts from other activity centers to the space restaurant. Below, participants included crater-filled yellow “moons” and large diamond crystal gems to the spaghetti play food.

Bead necklace and garland spaghetti with added loose parts make great space restaurant play food.

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The supplies in this post can also be included in a space-themed play kitchen setup.

What would you add to this space restaurant dramatic play center? Share your ideas in a comment below.

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Related:

Space Father’s Day Craft

Scented Moon Playdough

Salt and Glue Moon Art

White Lilacs and Black Playdough

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[Read more…] about Space Restaurant Dramatic Play

Filed Under: dramatic play, preschool, pretend play, sensory, space, themes Tagged With: dramatic play, loose parts, pretend play, sensory play, space, spaceships

Pump Bottle Watercolor Art

July 15, 2023 by Annette Kaminsky Leave a Comment

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A little extra watercolor paint and some repurposed and never been used pump bottles were the inspiration for this pump bottle watercolor art project. It’s a process art activity your early learners will love to do, and everyone in the family could give it a try.

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Follow me on Pinterest for more early learning ideas.

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Supplies To Collect

Just a few supplies will get your little learners off and painting in this pump bottle process art activity. A fun, watercolor art project.

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Gather the following supplies for this super fun art activity:

  • large sheets of copy paper, cardstock, or art paper
  • food coloring or liquid watercolors in a variety of hues
  • pump bottles
  • newsprint or water-resistant tablecloth
Super pretty pump bottle process art project your little learners will absolutely love to try. An all-ages watercolor art activity.

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The Pump Bottle Watercolor Art Project

This process art activity is so easy to set up and do. First, cover your work area with newspaper or a water-resistant tablecloth. You can also do the activity in an active world tray.

Next, fill pump bottles at least half full of liquid watercolors or food coloring mixed with water. Two of my pump bottles are repurposed teddy bear tempera paint bottles…so fun to use.

Just a few supplies will get your little learners off and painting in this pump bottle watercolor art activity. A fun, process art project.

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Then invite each participant to pump paint colors onto a large piece of copy paper, cardstock, or art paper.

Finally, let the pump bottle painted pictures dry and display.

Note: As this art activity is a little messy, it’s a great one to do outside.

Super pretty pump bottle watercolor art project your little learners will absolutely love to try. An all-ages process art activity.

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Super fun pump bottle process art project. An easy-to-do watercolor art activity early learners will love to do inside or outdoors.

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Related:

Spin Painting Butterflies

Bubble Wand Painting

Watercolor Planets With Markers

Northern Lights Squish Painting

Apple Print Activities

Monochromatic Christmas Tree Art

Shamrock Rolling Pin Art

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[Read more…] about Pump Bottle Watercolor Art

Filed Under: art, preschool Tagged With: color, process art

Tree Art Bulletin Board

July 13, 2023 by Annette Kaminsky Leave a Comment

Easy-to-do, picture book-inspired papercraft tree art bulletin board project. Woodland creratures are included in the art activity.
Easy-to-do, picture book-inspired papercraft tree art bulletin board project. Woodland creratures are included in the art activity.

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This bright tree art bulletin board is inspired by the stunning storybook called “The Wind and the Trees” by Todd Stewart. I discovered the book at a local library and instantly fell in love with the tender story and vibrant illustrations. The picture book provided just the inspiration I was looking for to redo a bulletin board begging for a change.

In the storybook, an old pine tree teaches a young sapling about the benefits and dangers of wind. Over the course of the story, the old pine weakens and deteriorates and the young sapling slowly grows bigger. By the end of the story, a storm wind has knocked the old tree down, and a seedling soon takes its place.

The vivid silkscreen illustrations in this heartwarming children’s book show the same scene on each page in different weather, seasons, and times of the day. Tree trunks, needles, and skies are designed in beautiful, varying color schemes. Woodland animals are included subtly in silhouette form on many of the pages.

A pink and red-leafed woodland tree design that fits in with a spring blossom theme.

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As I am accustomed to doing an art-themed bulletin board using the same tree in different seasons or times of day, I soon realized that drawing inspiration from the color combinations in the book would work nicely for a new tree art bulletin board. The tree art design is easy to replicate in a space you have available.

Easy-to-do, picture book-inspired papercraft tree art bulletin board project. Woodland creratures are included in the art activity.

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Follow me on Pinterest for more early learning ideas.

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Supplies To Collect

Colored tree trunks prepared for a picture book-inspired tree art bulletin board project. An easy-to do, all ages art activity.

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A selection of quality sturdy paper and a few other supplies are needed for this woodland papercraft project. Gather the following:

  • tree template
  • 9-inch x 12-inch fade-resistant construction paper in a variety of colors
  • cardstock in an array of colors
  • glitter cardstock
  • glue stick
  • paper punches
  • woodland animal stickers
  • pencil and scissors

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Preparing The Tree Art Craft

To plan out this tree art bulletin board, decide on a few different color schemes. I chose eight, but you can easily go with four. View the picture book “The Wind and the Trees” by Todd Stewart for color palette ideas.

Select a background color, tree trunk hue, and leaf colors for each tree art design. Use the paper choices you have available to pick color combinations.

Tip: Acid-free or fade-resistant paper is worth investing in for papercraft projects. The colors stay bright much longer.

Colored tree trunks prepared for a picture book-inspired tree art bulletin board project. An easy-to do, all ages art activity.

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Then use a template to cut out paper tree trunks. Feel free to download the template below to make your craft preparation easier.

Download this free, user-friendly tree template for art and craft activities. The template is perfect for bulletin board art.

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Tree Craft PrintableDownload

This printable is for individual or one classroom use only.

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Use two different-sized heart paper punches to create leaves. A few metallic paper leaves add a little glitz and are often children’s favorite collage pieces to use.

Note: The tree in the picture book is a pine. I chose a deciduous tree for my designs because its leaves work well for collage projects.

Next, glue a tree trunk to each background piece of paper.

Afterward, invite children to affix heart leaves to their trees using a glue stick.

Sunset-themed woodland tree art inspired by a picture book.

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Finally, participants can add paper punched and/or sticker woodland animals to their tree scenes. I used paper-punched birds and butterflies, and sticker deer, foxes, rabbits, raccoons, bears, squirrels, and porcupines.

Night-time woodland tree art inspired by a picture book.

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The Tree Art Bulleting Board Display

Easy-to-do, picture book-inspired papercraft tree art bulletin board project. Woodland creratures are included in the art activity.

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Displaying the tree art is easy when using a rectangular bulletin board. Arrange the art in a sequence of color designs, and repeat the pattern for the whole display. An alternative is to display the art randomly or in another pattern of your choice.

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A pink and red-leafed woodland tree design that fits in with a spring blossom theme.

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More About “The Wind and the Trees” Picture Book

In addition to being an inspiration for art projects, this gorgeous picture book by Todd Stewart is perfect for a tree or nature theme. Through colorful pictures and wisdom-filled print, it communicates the life cycle of trees. It also shares the following details about how wind benefits and hurts trees:

How The Wind Benefits Trees

  • tree roots grow deeper
  • tree bark becomes stronger
  • messages and signals are carried from one tree to another
  • seeds are scattered so new trees can grow

The Dangers Of Wind To Trees

  • roots are stretched
  • tree trunks and branches dry
  • older trees get knocked down

Lastly, the pictures also depict a variety of woodland animals for children to spot and name, such as bats, owls, squirrels, bees, eagles, a raccoon, and a porcupine.

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A blue and green-leafed woodland tree art design with the colors of a cloudy everning.

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Related:

Spin Painting Maple Leaf Art

Book-Inspired Tree Art

Horse Chestnut Leaf Art Activities

Neon Fingerpaint Tree Art

Maple Leaf Activities

Fall Leaf Salad Spinner Art

Eye Dropper Leaf Art

Christmas Tree Art

Christmas Tree Decorating Center

Monochromatic Christmas Tree Art

Candy Cane Tree Experiment

Chinese Money Tree Activities

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[Read more…] about Tree Art Bulletin Board

Filed Under: art, autumn, crafts, display, fall, literacy, preschool, spring, summer, trees Tagged With: papercrafts, tree art, trees

Unicorn Watercolor Art

July 11, 2023 by Annette Kaminsky Leave a Comment

Beautiful unicorn watercolor art project with non-toxic tempera paint pucks and fadeless construction paper. Free unicorn printable to download.
Beautiful unicorn watercolor art project with non-toxic tempera paint pucks and fadeless construction paper. Free unicorn printable to download.

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Tempera paint pucks are a great medium for decorating a unicorn template, as they have a whimsical watercolor look. They come in a variety of bright, vibrant hues, and an added bonus is that the paint dries quickly. In this unicorn watercolor art project, painted unicorns are included in a pretty paper craft scene.

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Follow me on Pinterest for more early learning ideas.

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Supplies To Collect

Supplies to create a stinning unicorn scene with tempera paint pucks and fadeless construction paper. A free unicorn template is available to download.

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Gather the following supplies to complete the beautiful unicorn scene:

  • non-toxic tempera paint pucks in a variety of colors
  • paint cake trays or muffin tins
  • paintbrushes and pots
  • 8 ½ inch x 11 inch white cardstock paper
  • 8 ½ x 11 inch green and light blue cardstock paper
  • metallic cardstock
  • circle paper punch
  • pencil and scissors
  • glue stick or glue gun
  • waterproof tablecloth or newsprint

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The Unicorn Watercolor Art Project

To start this stunning mythical-themed art project, first trace and cut out unicorns from white cardstock paper. Download the free template below for the activity, or choose your own design.

Download this free unicorn template for art and craft projects.

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Unicorn PrintableDownload

This printable is for individual or one classroom use only.

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Next, cover a table with a waterproof tablecloth or newsprint.

Then set up stations with a paper unicorn, paintbrush, paint pot filled with water, and tray with tempera paint pucks in bright hues.

Invite each participant to dip their paintbrush in water and generously wet a paint puck, and then begin painting their unicorn. Between colors, paintbrushes should be rinsed in a pot of water.

Tip: Prewetting tempera pucks with a paintbrush and water makes this activity easier for little learners and helps them get off to a good start.

When completed, set aside the decorated unicorns to dry. This will take under an hour. 

If there is time, participants may enjoy more watercolor painting on a rectangular or square piece of cardstock or copy paper.

After everyone has finished, rinse off the paint trays, pat them with a paper towel to remove excess water, and let them dry.

Beautiful unicorn watercolor art project with non-toxic tempera paint pucks and fadeless construction paper. Free unicorn printable to download.

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Creating A Unicorn Scene

To create a beautiful unicorn scene for each painted creature, cut a narrow, green strip from fadeless construction paper to represent grass.

Using a glue gun or glue stick. adhere the green strip to the bottom of a piece of light blue construction paper.

Then punch or cut a circular sun from metallic cardstock in a hue that complements the painted unicorn.

Finally, glue a sun and unicorn to the blue and green construction paper background, and pencil in a unicorn eye.

Note: Older children can complete these unicorn scene steps on their own.

A stunning unicorn art project with tempera paint pucks and fadeless construction paper. Download a free unicorn template for the activity.

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Watercolor-painted cardstock or copy paper would also work nicely as a backdrop for a painted unicorn.

A stunning unicorn art project with tempera paint pucks and fadeless construction paper. Download a free unicorn template for the activity.

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Non-Toxic Paint Pucks

Non-toxic tempera paint pucks are a nice resource to have in your collection of art supplies. Here is a little more information about them:

  • Tempera paint pucks are watercolor paints in a puck or cake form.
  • These easy-to-use paints come in many beautiful hues.
  • Color possibilities are limitless, as the paints can be mixed to make new hues.
  • The paint cakes sit nicely in art trays or standard muffin tins that stack easily and take very little room when stored.
  • The non-permanent paints can be used on paper, cardboard, fabric, and wood.
  • Adding differing amounts of water to the cakes results in different effects and lighter and darker shades.
  • Crayons and oil pastels work beautifully with the tempera paint pucks.
  • This art medium requires minimal preparation and clean-up time and is easy to use with a large group or classroom of students.
  • The tempera pucks and trays are inexpensive to buy and last a long time.

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Related:

Unicorn Playdough Tray

Unicorn Puppet Craft

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[Read more…] about Unicorn Watercolor Art

Filed Under: art, crafts, preschool, pretend play, unicorns Tagged With: painting, paper crafts, unicorns

Dyed Peony Science Experiment

July 2, 2023 by Annette Kaminsky Leave a Comment

This simple dyed peony science experiment shows how water travels through plants. An all-ages activity everyone will enjoy.
This simple dyed peony science experiment shows how water travels through plants. An all-ages activity everyone will enjoy.

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Peony plants have large, bold flowers that grow profusely during the blossoming season. It’s always sad to see them go so I try to snap a few pictures before they drop off.

Don’t get scared off by the ants in this picture I took! Ants eat peony nectar and help keep peonies safe by attacking bud-eating insects.

Pretty light pink peony flowers and buds. Peony blooms are showstoppers during the summer season.

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After taking a peony and thrifted vintage teacup photo, I realized that a saved flower in a jar of water would provide the perfect opportunity for a dyed peony science experiment. Peony flowers have a dense cluster of petals, similar to carnations, so I wondered if the experiment would turn out as well. It worked wonderfully, so I highly recommend giving it a try.

A pretty in pink peony bloom complements a thrifted vintage teacup.

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Follow me on Pinterest for more learning ideas.

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Supplies To Collect

All you need is a few supplies to perform this oh-so-easy, nature science experiment. Gather the following:

  • peony flower stem with leaves
  • clear jar or vase with water
  • neon blue food coloring
  • spoon

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The Dyed Peony Science Experiment

To perform this simple science experiment, fill a small, clear jar at least half full of water.

Add 10 or more drops of neon blue food coloring and stir it in. I use a blue hue, but any color of food coloring would work nicely.

Try this easy-to-do dyed peony science experiment today. This activity shows how water travels up peony stems and flows through leaves and petals.

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Set the sprig in the colored water overnight and observe it the next day. You’ll notice that the edges of the peony flower petals have turned blue.

Check the plant once a day after that to spot more color changes.

This simple dyed peony science experiment shows how water travels through plants. An all-ages activity everyone will enjoy.

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Try this easy-to-do dyed peony science experiment today. This activity shows how water travels up peony stems and flows through leaves and petals.

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Tell your little charges that coloring the water blue helps us see how water travels up the stem of a plant into the flower leaves and petals.

Note: The leaves and stems of my peony plant are dark, so it is difficult to see water travel up them. Choosing a plant with lighter leaves would show water travel through these plant parts better.

Large, light pink peony blooms are showstoppers during the summer season.

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The Importance of Water For Plants

Along with light, air, and good soil, water is super important to a plant’s growth and survival:

  • Plants are made of mostly water, and it helps them stay firm.
  • Plants cool down by releasing water from their stems and leaves. This helps them regulate their temperature.
  • Water carries important nutrients that help plants grow.
  • Sunlight, carbon dioxide from the air, and water are necessary for photosynthesis, which is how the leaves of plants create energy to survive.

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This simple dyed peony science experiment shows how water travels through plants. An all-ages activity everyone will enjoy.

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If you have an abundance of peonies, why not try this dyed peony science experiment with a variety of food coloring hues? Or you could perform it with carnations, which are easy to find and economical to buy.

Related:

Celery Science Experiment

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[Read more…] about Dyed Peony Science Experiment

Filed Under: gardening, preschool, science, sensory, summer Tagged With: color experiment, flowers, science experiment

Petunia Flower Sensory Tray

July 1, 2023 by Annette Kaminsky Leave a Comment

Purple-hued flowers are the stars of the show in this petunia flower sensory tray your little learners will love to explore.
Purple-hued flowers are the stars of the show in this petunia flower sensory tray your little learners will love to explore.

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A few weeks ago, a coworker brought me a beautiful bouquet of irises, which I thought would be perfect for a flowery sensory tray. After getting out supplies to coordinate with the purple and white color scheme, I realized I’d forgotten one really important thing… to check if irises are toxic. It was super disappointing to discover that every part of them is, so the irises couldn’t be used for sensory play.

Since all my accompanying supplies were ready to go, I decided to hunt for a child-friendly flowering plant. Luckily, on a shopping trip soon after I discovered a totally non-toxic, bountiful pot of purple-hued petunias. The pot was overflowing with leggy petunia shoots begging for a trim. The cuttings are featured in this petunia flower sensory tray.

This showy starry sky petunia plant is the perfect addition to your patio. Trimmed sprigs are repurposed in a petunia flower sensory tray.

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Petunia Flower Sensory Tray Supplies

A nature-based sensory tray with petunia flower sprigs and pretty purple and white loose parts for tactile exploration.

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A few simple supplies bring this sensory tray to life. In addition to petunia sprigs, there are:

  • metal bowls and tablespoons
  • non-breakable measuring cups, jars, and dessert cups
  • violet craft foam insects
  • metallic purple pom poms
  • purple necklace strips
  • pearl beads
  • large white buttons
  • pebble-shaped acrylic gems
  • scissors

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Pretty purple and white loose parts are the perfect addition to a petunia flower sensory tray your little learners will love to explore.

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Preparing The Petunia Flower Sensory Tray

The bin for this tray is a green active world tray. It is large enough for four or more children to play in at a time.

A nature-based sensory tray with petunia flower sprigs and pretty purple and white loose parts for tactile exploration.

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To set up this flower-themed sensory activity, cover a large, round table with a water-resistant tablecloth and place the tray on it.

Then set up four stations, each with a metal bowl, serving spoon, dessert cup, pair of scissors, and petunia sprig.

Next, fill the measuring cups with water and drop a little neon purple food coloring into each one.

Afterward, set a few jars with water in the tray.

Place a bouquet of petunias in a container in the middle.

Purple and white loose parts and similar colored petunias are the highlights of this petunia flower active world tray sensory play invitation.

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To complete the activity center, arrange bowls with loose parts such as craft foam insects, sparkly pom poms, necklace strips, buttons, pebble-shaped acrylic gems, and pearl beads around the vase.

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The Petunia Flower Sensory Tray

Your little learners will love to explore this petunia flower sensory tray. They’ll be excited to make flower and loose part soup, and to layer a jar with flowers and treasures. Scissor skill practice is a bonus in this play invitation.

Oh-so-fun sensory play with petunia flowers and pretty purple and white loose parts. A nature-based sensory activity.

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Oh-so-fun sensory play with petunia flowers and pretty purple and white loose parts. A nature-based sensory activity.

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Petunias are plentiful in garden centers in spring and summer and come in many different colors and patterns. It is easy to snag a pot for a good price at this time of year. Picking a pot overflowing with petunias ensures that you can cut off sprigs for sensory play and still have the pot of flowers to enjoy afterward. And it is a relief to know that all parts of petunia flowers are safe for children to touch.

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Purple-hued flowers are the stars of the show in this petunia flower sensory tray your little learners will love to explore.

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Related:

White Lilacs And Black Playdough

Flower Theme Activities

Floral Decorated Skeleton

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[Read more…] about Petunia Flower Sensory Tray

Filed Under: gardening, insects, preschool, pretend play, sensory, spring, summer Tagged With: flowers, sensory bin, sensory play, sensory tray

Magnet Science Tuff Tray

June 10, 2023 by Annette Kaminsky Leave a Comment

How to set up an easy magnet science tuff tray. A simple, hands-on science center your little learners will love to explore.
How to set up an easy magnet science tuff tray. A simple, hands-on science center your little learners will love to explore.

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Children love to explore magnets, and setting up this magnetic science tuff tray is an easy way to offer a variety of magnets and accessories for them to investigate. The tray allows little learners to get in on a low-maintenance, hands-on, intriguing science activity.

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Supplies To Collect

How to set up an easy magnet science tuff tray. A simple, hands-on science center your little learners will love to explore.

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Look for magnets of all kinds and in all places when setting up a magnet-themed tuff tray. Here’s what’s in my tray:

  • number and shape magnets
  • magnetic alphabet letter tiles
  • ball magnets
  • square magnets
  • horseshoe magnets
  • wand magnets
  • fridge magnets
  • magnetic tic tac toe game pieces
  • stick and ball magnet toy
  • magnetic gears
  • metal hearts
  • recycled juice can lids
  • baskets
  • round cake pan
  • cookie pans
  • easel display stands

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The Magnetic Science Tuff Tray

This magnetic tuff tray is filled with different kinds of magnets for early learners to explore. Aside from magnets purchased from learning supply stores, it includes unexpected items such as game pieces and fridge magnets.

A simple magnet science active world tuff tray for early learners to explore. An easy set up and clean up activity center.

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The number and shape magnets were borrowed from a game. They provide opportunities for counting and number and shape recognition.

The magnetic alphabet letter tiles give young children a chance to name letters, say letter sounds, and spell names and other words.

Set up this simple magnet exploration tuff tray in minutes to offer your little learners a hands-on magnet science activity to explore.

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Little learners love spinning objects, which makes the magnetic gears an excellent fit.

Cookie pans set in art stands allow for vertical surfaces to work on.

Introducing magnets such as horseshoe and bar magnets on different days encourages continued interest in the center.

It is a good idea to check local dollar stores for supplies to add. My fridge magnets and magnetic tic tac toe pieces were purchased at dollar stores.

Set up this simple magnet exploration tuff tray in minutes to offer your little learners a hands-on magnet science activity to explore.

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After early learners have had a chance to explore the tray, it will likely look something like the one below.

A fun magnet tuff tray to offer your little learners a hands-on magnet science activity to explore. Set up and cleanup for this activity is super easy.

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Many of the supplies for this magnetic science tuff tray are arranged in baskets. It is a terrific sorting and classifying activity to have the little learners arrange supplies back into the storage containers when they are finished exploring the tray.

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Magnet Science Tuff Tray Opportunities For Learning

A simple magnet science active world tuff tray for early learners to explore. An easy set up and clean up activity center.

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There are many opportunities for learning in this magnet science tuff tray. Aside from the educational benefits mentioned above, early learners can

  • make and test predictions
  • develop critical thinking
  • learn about magnetic poles
  • investigate magnetic strength
  • explore balance and weight
  • sort items into magnetic and non-magnetic categories
  • create unique structures
  • enhance fine motor control when handling supplies

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Variations Of This Magnetic Tuff Tray

For additional learning through play with magnets, fill a storage bin with a base such as rice, beans, or chickpeas and add magnetic accessories. Hiding items in the sensory base makes for an exciting search-and-find activity.

And you can include non-magnetic items for further exploration.

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[Read more…] about Magnet Science Tuff Tray

Filed Under: Math, preschool, science, sensory Tagged With: magnets, sensory bin, sensory tray, tuff tray

Outer Space Pretend Play

May 26, 2023 by Annette Kaminsky Leave a Comment

Shiny, metallic loose parts are the highlight of this outer space pretend play tablescape your little learners will love to explore.
Shiny, metallic loose parts are the highlight of this outer space pretend play tablescape your little learners will love to explore.

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This outer space pretend play tablescape is one of my absolute favorites. It has lots of shiny, metallic pieces that are perfect for an out-in-space dining experience.

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Follow me on Pinterest for more early learning ideas.

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Supplies To Collect

The following supplies work well in this space-themed pretend play tablescape your little astronauts will love:

  • small metallic silver star-shaped dessert bowls
  • juice lids
  • gold and silver adhesive gems
  • large silver bells
  • silver bead garland
  • gold bead necklaces
  • star-shaped reusable ice cubes
  • aluminum foil tart baking cups
  • silver pipe cleaners
  • metal serving bowl
  • silver tongs
  • clear cutlery
  • small silver tray
  • grey muffin tin
  • styrofoam balls
  • clear plastic stemware
  • metallic silver or gold tablecloth
  • metallic spray centerpiece
  • aluminum foil pie pans

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The Space Tablescape Pretend Play Set Up

A shiny, metallic silver and gold color scheme transforms the play kitchen into an outer space pretend play area.

Shiny, metallic loose parts are the highlight of this outer space pretend play tablescape your little learners will love to explore.

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Aluminum foil tart baking cups glued onto juice lids along with silver pipe cleaner handles make cute space-themed tea cups.

DIY metallic silver tea cups created for an outer space pretend play tablescape for little learners.

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The addition of gold star stickers is an easy way to have stemware fit the outer space theme.

Just add star stickers to transform a goblet into an outer space pretend play accessory.

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Silver-edged clear plastic stemware glasses add elegance to the table display.

A silver-edged goblet with resusable star ice cubes co-ordinates well with a space-themed pretend play tablescape.

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Large silver bells serve as muffins, white styrofoam balls are buns, and aluminum foil pie pans are dinner plates.

Stryfoam balls and large metallic silver bells add interest to an outer space play food table display.

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Gold bead necklaces cut into strips make great pretend spaghetti noodles. Silver balls cut from garland are the meatballs.

Cut metallic bead garland and necklaces make the perfect loose parts for an outer space spaghetti pretend play meal.

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Silver and gold adhesive gems added to juice lids make tasty chocolate chip cookies.

Just add gold and silver gem stickers to juice lids to create outer space chocolate chip pretend play cookies.

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A metallic silver tablecloth, reusable star ice cubes, and a silver bowl, tray, muffin tin, and pair of tongs round out the supplies in this glittery outer space pretend play tablescape.

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Lighted Outer Space Pretend Play

For added flare, include a metallic spray centerpiece and shine a professional stage light on the outer space pretend play tablescape.

A professional stage light adds flare in outer space pretend play tablescape set up.

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Related:

Scented Moon Playdough

Space Father’s Day Craft

Salt and Glue Moon Art

White Lilacs and Black Playdough

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[Read more…] about Outer Space Pretend Play

Filed Under: dramatic play, party, preschool, pretend play, space Tagged With: dramatic play, play food, play kitchen, pretend play

Circus Playdough Tray

May 21, 2023 by Annette Kaminsky Leave a Comment

A bright and cheery circus playdough tray bound to spark your little learner's imagination. Playdough recipe included.
A bright and cheery circus playdough tray bound to spark your little learner's imagination. Playdough recipe included.

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Let the circus come to town with this colorful circus playdough tray. It includes a variety of bright and shiny loose parts that will spark the imagination of your little learners.

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Follow me on Pinterest for more early learning ideas.

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Supplies To Collect

Bright and cheery circus-themed loose parts tray for playdough or small world play.

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The following supplies work well in this circus-themed playdough tray:

  • round nesting cookie cutter set
  • train engine, star, and heart cookie cutters
  • bottle corks
  • popsicle sticks
  • thread spools
  • juice lids
  • geometric shape pattern blocks
  • large buttons
  • reusable ice cube stars
  • rings
  • rubber balls
  • clown figurines and accessories
  • people figurine stackers
  • metallic gold and silver spray paint
  • compartment serving tray

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The Circus Playdough Invitation To Play

Set out this cheerful circus playdough invitation for your little learners to explore. A playdough recipe is included.

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Before offering this inviting playdough tray, read a storybook about circus performers. One of my favorite picture books on this topic is “Circus” by Lois Ehlert.

Next, spray recyclable supplies such as bottle corks, popsicle sticks, and thread spools with metallic gold and silver paint and let them dry. These make great props for circus performer figurines.

Afterward, set all of the supplies in the compartments of a serving tray.

Then pick a playdough to use. I feature my favorite basic playdough recipe, which is soft, pliable, and stores well.

A bright and cheery circus playdough tray bound to spark your little learner's imagination. Playdough recipe included.

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Playdough Recipe

My go-to basic playdough recipe (featured in this post) has the following ingredients:

  • 2 cups flour
  • 1 cup salt
  • 4 teaspoons cream of tartar
  • 2 cups water
  • 3 tablespoons oil

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Add the first three ingredients to a sturdy pot and mix them together.

Stir two tablespoons of oil into two cups of water.

Add the water and oil to the dry ingredients and combine.

Heat on the stove on medium heat.

Stirring frequently, cook until the mixture is no longer glossy and the dough forms a ball.

Place the dough on a cutting board.

Knead when cool, adding one more tablespoon of oil.

Store the playdough in a sealed plastic bag.

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Bright and cheery circus-themed loose parts tray for playdough or small world play.

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Your little learners will be excited to explore this cheery circus playdough tray with plenty of loose parts to use.

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More Playdough Activities:

Scented Moon Playdough

White Lilacs And Black Playdough

Pet-Themed Playdough Tray

Scented Playdough Activities

Watermelon Playdough Tray

Pumpkin Playdough Activities

Edible Playdough Pumpkins

Glam Skeleton Playdough Tray

Chocolate Mint Playdough

Gingerbread Playdough

Christmas Playdough

Santa Claus Playdough Tray

Orange-Scented Playdough Invitation

Winter Playdough Recipe

Valentine’s Day Playdough Activities

St. Patrick’s Day Playdough Tray

Easter Playdough Tray

Unicorn Playdough Tray

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[Read more…] about Circus Playdough Tray

Filed Under: circus, playdough, preschool, sensory Tagged With: circus, playdough, sensory tray

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Hi, I'm Annette Kaminsky. I am a preschool teacher who loves to share easy and fun early learning activities. Thanks for visiting my blog. Feel free to stay awhile!

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St.Patrick’s Day Playdough Tray #StPatrick’s D St.Patrick’s Day Playdough Tray
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St. Patrick’s Day Pretend Play Tablescape #StPa St. Patrick’s Day Pretend Play Tablescape

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Easy Setup Polar Bear Small World Easy Setup Polar Bear Small World
Beautiful spray paint snowflake silhouettes for an Beautiful spray paint snowflake silhouettes for anyone who is having a snowy last week of February like we are. 😊. #snowflakesilhoettes #snowflakes #snowflakeart #spraypaint #spraypaintart #spraypaintartist #foodcoloring #prek #kindergarten #littleartist #outdooractivities #outdoorart #easyart #colorfulart #colofulartwork
Penguin-Themed Pretend Play Tablescape Penguin-Themed Pretend Play Tablescape
A little sunburst heart art activity using skin to A little sunburst heart art activity using skin tone pencil crayons. ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️ #heartart #sunburst #pencilcrayonart #ValentinesDayart #blackhistorymonth #valentines #earlylearning #preschoolart #kindergartenart #artclass #artclassroom #puttingtheprettyinpreschool #pencilcrayons #skintones #skintone #artsupplies
A dessert restaurant dramatic play center perfect A dessert restaurant dramatic play center perfect for Valentine’s Day.
Llama-Inspired Winter Sensory Bin Llama-Inspired Winter Sensory Bin
Chinese Lunar New Year Sensory Tub Chinese Lunar New Year Sensory Tub
Chinese New Year DIY Decorating Chinese New Year DIY Decorating
Chinese New Year Sensory Bin Chinese New Year Sensory Bin
Winter-themed treasure blocks add interest to smal Winter-themed treasure blocks add interest to small world play. ❄️❄️❄️

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This craft is popular on my Pinterest account righ This craft is popular on my Pinterest account right now. Link in profile leads to the New Year’s Craft blog post post with ideas for crafts and free printables to download.  #NewYears #NewYearsEve #newyearsactivities #newyearscrafts #2023 #ringinthenewyear #newyearcountdown #handprintcraft #newyear2023 #puttingtheprettyinpreschool #freeprintables #preschoolprintables
Have a few candy canes around? Try this super easy Have a few candy canes around? Try this super easy candy cane science experiment.  #candycanes #scienceexperiment #candyscience #Christmasactivitiesforkids #kidsscience #kidsscienceexperiments #candycanetree #treeart #puttingtheprettyinpreschool #preschoolscienceexperiment
These trees make a simple but showy last minute ar These trees make a simple but showy last minute art project.  #Christmastrees #Christmastreedecorating #treepaintings #treeart #treeartwork #easyart #prettytrees #monochromaticart #monochromaticpainting #kindergartenart #preschoolart #littleartist #littleartists #funwithpaint #pastelcolors #puttingtheprettyinpreschool
A spicy gingerbread playdough lets children experi A spicy gingerbread playdough lets children experience all the smells. This  no cook recipe let’s early learners help from start to finish. Recipe is on the blog. Link in profile leads to the post.  #gingerbread #gingerbreadplaydough #homemadeplaydough #loosepartsplay #Christmasplaydough #puttingtheprettyinpreschool #handsonplay #gingerbreadcookies #gingerbreaddecorating
Five festive Christmas sensory bins perfect for ho Five festive Christmas sensory bins perfect for holiday celebrations! Link in profile leads to the blog posts. 🎄🎁 🎄🎁🎄 #ricebins #Christmassensoryplay #Christmasplay #earlylearning #Christmaspartyideas #December #playislearning #playideas #playideasforkids #holidayvibes #Christmasvibes #Christmastime #prek #kindergarten #kindergartenclassroom #kindergartenactivities #prekclassroom #handsonlearning #puttingtheprettyinpreschool
Nine ideas for CD Case Christmas crafts that doubl Nine ideas for CD Case Christmas crafts that double up as blocks for block play. Link in profile leads to the blog post. 🎄⛄️🦌

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Remembrance Day everyday object printed poppy beca Remembrance Day everyday object printed poppy because “We Remember.”

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Have you ever heard of orange or yellow watermelon Have you ever heard of orange or yellow watermelon? They are featured in creative snacks in this watermelon-themed video. Link in profile leads to the blogpost.  #creativesnacks #watermelonsnacks #funsnacks #easysnacks #healthysnacks #watermelon #sunflowers #fruitskewers #popsicles #watermelonpopsicles #puttingtheprettyinpreschool #preschoolsnacks #teacherofig #iteachprek #iteach
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