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Christmas

Orange-Scented Playdough Invitation

January 14, 2023 by Annette Kaminsky Leave a Comment

This orange-scented playdough invitation includes many scents and is perfect for Christmas or Chinese New Year celebrations.
This orange-scented playdough invitation includes many scents and is perfect for Christmas or Chinese New Year celebrations.

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This orange-scented playdough invitation introduces early learners to scents and colors that work with current festivities. The activity is a good fit for Christmas and carries over to Lunar New Year celebrations.

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Oranges And Christmas

Oranges have been part of Christmas traditions for many years. Here are some ways they were incorporated into the festive holiday season in times past:

  • In pioneer days, oranges were rare. As such, they were prized stocking stuffers.
  • Sliced oranges were used in natural decorations, such as wreaths, garlands, and tree ornaments.
  • Oranges were made into deliciously scented clove-studded pomanders that were displayed in Christmas décor afterward.
Cinnamon sticks, cloves, and star anise add fun to an orange-scented playdough invitation.

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Today, oranges are still popular in Christmas decorating projects. And people are encouraged to eat the nutrient-rich, vitamin C-packed fruit to ward off a cold or flu.

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Oranges And The Lunar New Year

Mandarin oranges, preferably with a stem and a few leaves attached, are given as gifts and used in decorating during Lunar New Year celebrations. They symbolize happiness, good luck, wealth, longevity, and fertility.

Mandarin oranges with stems and leaves attached indicate freshness and represent wishes for long life and fertility in Chinese New Year celebrations.

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Spices such as star anise, cloves, and cinnamon are native to parts of Asia. And these three spices are also part of Chinese five spice powder, a spice used to season many Asian dishes.

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Follow me on Pinterest for more early learning ideas.

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Orange-Scented Playdough Recipe

The orange jello in this recipe gives the dough a lovely citrus scent and a bright orange color.

For the playdough, gather the following ingredients:

  • 2 cups flour
  • 1 cup salt
  • 4 teaspoons cream of tartar
  • 2 3 oz / 85-gram packages of orange jello powder
  • 2 cups water
  • 3 tablespoons oil

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    How To Make Orange-Scented Playdough

    An easy-to-make orange-scented orange playdough recipe showcased with loose parts early learners will love to explore.

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    To make this soft, cooked playdough recipe, add the first three ingredients to a sturdy pot and mix them together.

    Stir in two 3 oz/85 gram packages of orange jello powder into two cups of boiled water. Then stir in 2 tablespoons oil.

    Add the fruity liquid 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 and add one more tablespoon of oil.

    Wrap the playdough in saran wrap and place it in a sealed plastic bag to store it.

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    The Orange-Scented Playdough Invitation

    This orange-scented playdough invitation includes many scents and is perfect for Christmas or Chinese New Year celebrations.

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    For a traditional vibe, offer the orange playdough on a tray with the following:

    • cinnamon sticks
    • star anise pods
    • whole cloves
    • ribbon
    • mandarin orange leaves and stems
    • tree sprigs
    • pine cones

    The star anise, cinnamon sticks, cloves, and grated orange rind add additional scents for children to experience when using the playdough supplies. They contribute to the cultural vibes of the play invitation.

    Tip: Show a few samples of pomanders and Christmas decorations using dried oranges before offering this playdough invitation to inspire creativity. Or display a miniature orange tree and/or oranges with stems and leaves attached for early learners to observe.

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    Adding Grated Orange Rind

    Grated orange rind, cloves, and cinnamon sticks add interest to an orange-scented playdough invitation.

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    To extend this aromatic playdough experience, sprinkle grated orange rind near each participant’s work area. The crumbled, scented rind gives early learners a chance to incorporate a new texture into their creations.

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    Orange-Scented Playdough Invitation Benefits

    This orange-scented playdough invitation has many educational benefits. When using the playdough and accompanying supplies, early learners develop finger strength, important for being able to hold a pencil and use scissors. And eye-hand coordination is enhanced through making playdough creations.

    An easy-to-make orange-scented orange playdough recipe showcased with loose parts early learners will love to explore.

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    Below are suggestions to extend the learning potential of this playdough experience:

    Language Development

    Label spices and discuss their colors and shapes:

    Highlight that star anise pods look like stars, whole cloves are shaped like nails, and cinnamon sticks look like tiny rolled logs.

    Smell and describe the following scents:

    • the strong, sweet, licorice smell of star anise.
    • the fragrant, sweet smell of cinnamon sticks.
    • the strong, powerful smell of whole cloves.

    Math Skills

    Count cloves and star anise pods.

    Count the points on star anise. There are usually six to eight points.

    Discuss pairs: In parts of Asia, a pair of oranges is given to newlywed couples as a symbol of luck and fertility.

    Creativity

    Design oranges and pomanders from playdough and spices.

    Incorporate natural materials in playdough designs.

    Cinnamon sticks, cloves, and star anise add fun to orange-scented playdough creations.

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    Cinnamon sticks, cloves, and star anise add fun to an orange-scented playdough invitation.

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    Related:

    Santa Claus Playdough Tray

    Christmas Playdough

    Gingerbread Playdough

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    [Read more…] about Orange-Scented Playdough Invitation

    Filed Under: Chinese New Year, Christmas, playdough, preschool, sensory Tagged With: Chinese New Year, Christmas, loose parts, playdough, scented playdough

    Santa Claus Sensory Bin

    December 23, 2022 by Annette Kaminsky Leave a Comment

    This Santa Claus sensory bin is filled with many economical dollar store supplies. It's a sure-to-please bin that can be set up in minutes.
    This easy Santa Claus sensory bin is filled with many economical dollar store supplies. It's a sure-to-please bin that can be set up in minutes.

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    With Santa on many children’s minds right now it’s the perfect time to set out a simple Santa Claus sensory bin.

    This fun sensory activity is inspired by two Santa ornaments I was gifted this Christmas season. After receiving the ornaments, I realized I had enough supplies to make a no-fuss Santa bin. The bin is a great example of how just a few themed items can provide an interesting sensory invitation.

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    Follow me on Pinterest for more early learning ideas.

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    Supplies To Collect

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    Here are the supplies I gathered for the festive bin:

    • Santa train engine cookie tin
    • Santa ornament
    • knitted Scandinavian multicultural dolls
    • fillable Santa ball ornament
    • jingle bell garland
    • peppermint candy erasers
    • Santa and Santa hat erasers
    • wooden ladle

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      The Santa Claus Sensory Bin

      This easy Santa sensory bin is filled with many economical dollar store supplies. It's a sure-to-please bin that can be set up in minutes.

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      This jovial sensory bin has a dyed chickpea base. The chickpeas are colored with various amounts of red acrylic craft paint. You can find out how to dye chickpeas in my blog post “Chinese New Year Sensory Play.”

      Note: As an alternative to using chickpeas for the base, white rice works well too.

      The chickpeas are spread out in a white bus/utility tub. This size bin works well for one to three children to use.

      The Santa train engine cookie tin was a happy find last year. I previously featured it in a blog post titled “Plaid-Themed Christmas Rice Bin.”

      The Santa ornament fits perfectly in the train engine. I checked to make sure it has no rough edges before offering it in the bin. A small plush Santa is a good fit too.

      A fillable Santa Claus ornament and other dollar store supplies make for an inviting chickpea-based sensory bin.

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      The fillable Santa ball comes apart, and each half holds lots of chickpeas and loose parts.

      The Scandinavian knitted dolls are cut from a Christmas garland. They make fun helpers for Santa!

      Dollar stores carry metallic jingle bell garlands. Cut into strips, the garland becomes musical loose parts for the bin.

      Peppermint and Santa-themed erasers add interest. They are great for counting and sorting practice.

      A wooden ladle is useful for filling the Santa train and ball ornament with chickpeas, erasers, and garland. When using one, early learners get practice with eye-hand coordination.

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      Making Your Own Santa Claus Sensory Bin

      Would you like to make a Santa Claus-themed sensory bin? You probably have a few interesting supplies already on hand to include. Then add a few dollar store finds. It’s that simple!

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      More Santa-Themed Activities:

      • Santa Claus Playdough Tray
      • Santa’s Beard Scissor Activity

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      [Read more…] about Santa Claus Sensory Bin

      Filed Under: Christmas, preschool, pretend play, sensory Tagged With: Christmas, Santa Claus, sensory bin, sensory play

      Paper Bag Christmas Ornaments

      December 22, 2022 by Annette Kaminsky Leave a Comment

      How to make six different brown paper bag Christmas ornaments. An all-ages, beautiful recycled craft. Free templates are included.
      How to make six different brown paper bag Christmas ornaments. An all-ages, beautiful recycled craft. Free templates are included.

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      For so long I have admired art projects that involve brown paper bags or doilies. This Christmas I was determined to use both of these supplies to make paper bag Christmas ornaments. The resulting ornaments are simple but beautiful… a perfect combination.

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      Follow me on Pinterest for more early learning ideas.

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      Supplies To Collect

      Supplies to make vintage-inspired paper bag Christmas ornaments. Download the free templates for these six different designs.

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      To craft these vintage-themed ornaments, gather the following easy-to-find supplies:

      • large brown paper grocery bag
      • white paper doilies
      • thin white ribbon
      • white pearl bead garland
      • adhesive white pearl beads
      • white pencil crayon
      • pencil
      • scissors
      • glue stick
      • glue gun

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      Make these beautiful vintage-inspired paper bag Christmas ornaments with lace paper doily accents. Free templates are available to use.

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      Making The Paper Bag Christmas Ornaments

      First, cut out a star, gingerbread girl, angel, heart, and each tree ornament from a large brown paper bag. Feel free to download the templates below to help with the designs.

      Note: The three printables in this post are for individual and one-classroom use only.

      Download this gingerbread girl and ornament template to make beautiful vintage-inspired brown paper bag Christmas ornaments.

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      Gingerbread Girl And Ornament PrintableDownload

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      Download this angel and ornament template to make beautiful vintage-inspired brown paper bag Christmas ornaments.

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      Angel And Ornament PrintableDownload

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      Download this star and heart template to make beautiful vintage-inspired paper bag Christmas ornaments.

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      Star And Heart PrintableDownload

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      With a white pencil crayon, outline the border of each paper bag shape.

      Make these vintage-inspired brown paper bag Christmas ornaments. Download the free templates to make six different designs.

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      Next, cut out shapes from white paper doilies to accent the paper ornaments. Snipping around the designs in the doilies will give you pretty lace pieces to work with.

      Afterward, use a glue stick to affix them to the brown paper backgrounds.

      Then cut thin white ribbon into 15 cm strips. Tie them in bows, and trim the ends to your desired length. Glue one bow to each ornament.

      Next, cut white pearl bead garland into 8 cm strips. Use a glue gun to affix one strip to the back of each ornament in a loop shape.

      Make these beautiful vintage-inspired paper bag Christmas ornaments with lace paper doily accents. Free templates are available to use.

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      As a finishing touch, accent the ornaments with a few adhesive white pearl beads.

      Make these six different brown paper bag Christmas ornaments with lace paper doily accents. Free templates are included.

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      Now the ornaments are ready to be displayed on a Christmas tree. Aren’t they gorgeous?

      How to make six different paper bag Christmas ornaments. An all-ages, beautiful recycled craft. Free templates are included.

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      Paper Bag Gift Wrap

      Another easy, festive craft activity with paper bags is to make decorated gift wrap. A blog post by “A Pretty Fix” titled “Four Simple Brown Paper Bag Gift Wrap Ideas” will give you lots of ideas to try.

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      Related: Handprint Christmas Crafts

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      [Read more…] about Paper Bag Christmas Ornaments

      Filed Under: art, Christmas, crafts, preschool Tagged With: Christmas craft, ornaments, paper bag crafts

      Candy Cane Tree Experiment

      December 20, 2022 by Annette Kaminsky Leave a Comment

      This mini candy cane tree experiment is a must-try. Just three supplies are needed for the simple science activity everyone will love.

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      This candy cane tree experiment is easy to set up and is sure to be a conversation piece. It works well as a Christmas science activity, and also fits a forest theme.

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      Follow me on Pinterest for more early learning ideas.

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      Supplies To Collect

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      For this simple science experiment, gather the following four supplies:

      • package of mini candy canes
      • one round striped candy
      • large flat white or cream-colored plate
      • flask of warm water

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        The Candy Cane Tree Experiment

        Design a tree on a plate with mini candy canes. Pour water into the plate and watch what happens. Your audience will be wowed!

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        To perform this showy science experiment, start by arranging mini candy canes on a plate in a Christmas/coniferous tree design. The colorful and fruity candy canes above were a great find at a Dollar Store.

        Next, set a round candy on top of the tree to be the tree topper.

        Then fill a flask with warm water.

        Carefully set the plate with the tree design on a table.

        Now the experiment is ready to be performed. Invite participants to gather around the candy tree. Slowly pour water from the flask into the plate and invite everyone to watch what happens. It’s that simple!

        Participants will be wowed at how the colors in the candy canes quickly spread through the water, making beautiful designs.

        Watch the colors explode from the candy cane tree in this super simple science experiment everyone will love.

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        Color changes will be instant. Over time the colors and their intensity will change.

        Watch the colors move and change in this super simple science experiment everyone will love. The activity is a must-try.

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        Note: This tree-shaped experiment can be done with standard-sized candy canes in a large ridged serving tray.

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        The Science Behind The Candy Cane Tree Experiment

        The candy canes are made of sugar. The water breaks the sugar molecules apart. Then the food colors move through the water from areas of higher sugar concentration (near the candy) to areas with less sugar (the center and rim of the tray.) When the sugar concentration is the same in all areas, the colors stop moving.

        Water temperature is a variant in this experiment. Sugar dissolves more quickly in warm water, and food coloring moves at a faster pace.

        Candy Cane Color Experiment Variations

        Watch the stunning color changes in this super simple mini candy cane science experiment. Try it today!

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        You can forgo making a tree shape with the candy canes, and spread a few around a plate instead. The color movement is just as interesting in this more basic version.

        Watch beautiful colors emerge in this super simple science experiment with a serious WOW factor. Just thee supplies are needed to perform the experiment.

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        Watch beautiful colors emerge in this super simple science experiment with a serious WOW factor. Just thee supplies are needed to perform the experiment.

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        And if you have been following my blog for a while, you may have discovered that I have done a few other candy/candy cane color experiments. Here are more variations:

        Candy Cane Science Experiment

        Blue Candy Cane Science Experiment

        Shamrock Dissolving Candy Experiment

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        This mini candy cane color experiment is a must-try. Just three supplies are needed for the simple science activity everyone will love.

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        [Read more…] about Candy Cane Tree Experiment

        Filed Under: Christmas, preschool, science, sensory, trees Tagged With: candy canes, Christmas tree, science experiment, trees

        Gingerbread Sensory Bin

        December 19, 2022 by Annette Kaminsky Leave a Comment

        A chickpea-based gingerbread sensory bin children will love. Shop the dollar stores for gingerbread accessories to fill the bin.
        A chickpea-based gingerbread sensory bin children will love. Shop the dollar stores for gingerbread accessories to fill the bin.

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        This gingerbread sensory bin is quick and easy to set up. Most of the supplies in the bin are dollar store finds, so the activity is low-cost. So why not set it up for your little learners this holiday season?

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        Follow me on Pinterest for more early learning activities.

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        Supplies To Collect

        A super fun gingerbread sensory bin with a chickpea base. An economical bin with dollar store gingerbread accessories.

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        The gingerbread-themed supplies gathered for the bin are:

        • cookie cutters
        • cookie tin
        • ice cube tray
        • gingerbread people ornaments and game pieces
        • gingerbread house and candy cane ornaments

        Also in the bin are:

        • bell garland strips
        • peppermint erasers

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        The Gingerbread Sensory Bin

        An easy-to-put-together gingerbread sensory bin with a chickpea base. An economical bin with dollar store gingerbread accessories.

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        This gingerbread-themed sensory bin has a dyed chickpea base. You can find out how to dye chickpeas in my blog post titled “Chinese New Year Sensory Play.”

        Note: You can skip coloring the chickpeas and use undyed ones instead. They are the same color as gingerbread cookies!

        The chickpeas are spread out in a white bus/utility tub. This size bin works well for one to three children to use at a time.

        The cookie tin, ice cube tray, ornaments, garland, and erasers are from dollar stores. You would be able to find cookie cutters there too.

        This sensory bin is a great follow-up activity to reading gingerbread character stories and doing songs and fingerplays about gingerbread people.

        A chickpea-based gingerbread sensory bin children will love. Shop the dollar stores for gingerbread accessories to fill the bin.

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        Other Supplies For The Gingerbread Bin

        There are endless supplies that work in this bin. Other supplies that could be added are:

        • large gingerbread cookie cutters
        • gingerbread people erasers
        • wiggly eyes
        • pompoms
        • buttons
        • rickrack strips
        • cookie jar

        Whatever the supplies, this cheery gingerbread sensory bin is bound to be a huge hit with your little learners!

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        Related:

        Gingerbread Playdough

        Scissor Skill Gingerbread Man Craft

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        [Read more…] about Gingerbread Sensory Bin

        Filed Under: Christmas, preschool, pretend play, sensory Tagged With: chickpea bin, gingerbread, gingerbread cookies, gingerbread man, loose parts, sensory bin, sensory play

        Monochromatic Christmas Tree Art

        December 17, 2022 by Annette Kaminsky Leave a Comment

        Include this simple monochromatic Christmas tree art project in your holiday activities. The pastel-themed trees look beautiful on display.
        Include this simple monochromatic Christmas tree art project in your holiday activities. The pastel-themed trees look beautiful on display.

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        This simple monochromatic Christmas tree art is completed in four different color themes. The art activity is easy to implement at home or in a Christmas art program. Finished projects display beautifully on a bulletin board or feature wall.

        The color theme chosen for this gorgeous art activity is inspired by the exquisite pastel-colored miniature Christmas tree ornaments spotted on shopping trips around town this holiday season.

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        Follow me on Pinterest for more early learning activities.

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        Supplies To Collect

        Just a few supplies are needed for this pretty craft:

        • 12 x 18-inch sturdy paper
        • magenta, yellow, teal, green, and white tempera paints
        • glitter in magenta, teal, gold, and green colors
        • large magenta, gold, teal, and light green gift bows
        • paint palettes
        • paint pots
        • paintbrushes
        • spoons
        • ruler
        • pencil
        • scissors
        • hot glue gun or white glue
        • plastic tablecloth

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        Preparing The Tree Art Project

        This monochromatic Christmas tree art project is done in pastel shades of green, yellow, teal, and magenta. The trees look beautiful on display.

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        First, select 12 x 18-inch sturdy paper for the art project. I used manila and manila tag and both kinds worked well.

        With a ruler and pencil, draw a long, narrow triangle on each sheet of paper. The triangles should fill the whole page.

        Next, cut the paper triangles out.

        Then mix a variety of shades of magenta, yellow, teal, and green tempera paint in small pots by adding various amounts of white to each color. For each hue, the shades should range from light to dark.

        Tips:

        • To warm up the yellow just a little, add a drop of red to the hues.
        • To make teal paint, mix a little yellow into blue paint. Or use teal tempera paint straight out of the bottle.

        Afterward, spoon different shades of each color into paint palettes. Each palette should have shades of one hue only. Include a little white tempera.

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        The Monochromatic Christmas Tree Art Process

        This monochromatic Christmas tree art project is done in pastel shades of green, yellow, teal, and magenta. The trees look beautiful on display.

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        To offer this tree painting project, cover an art table with a plastic tablecloth.

        Choose one monochromatic color scheme to work with.

        Then set out a triangular-shaped paper tree, filled paint palette, and brush for each child participating.

        Invite participants to paint their tree, using as many shades of the chosen color as they can.

        When the trees are fully covered and the paint is still wet, let little artists sprinkle similarly toned glitter on their projects. They will love this part of the process.

        After the paint has dried, use white glue or a hot glue gun to affix a matching gift bow to the top of each tree. As an alternative, glue silver or gold bows on the trees.

        On another day, pick a different paint color and offer the Christmas tree painting project again.

        If there is time, complete the tree art in all four colors.

        Include this simple monochromatic Christmas tree art project in your holiday activities. The pastel-themed trees look beautiful on display.

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        When finished, display the painted trees together on a wall. They are sure to be admired!

        Note: The paint colors used for this art project also make awesome ombre Christmas trees.

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        Related: Christmas Tree Art

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        [Read more…] about Monochromatic Christmas Tree Art

        Filed Under: art, Christmas, preschool, trees, winter Tagged With: Christmas tree, painting, paper crafts, trees

        Gingerbread Playdough

        December 12, 2022 by Annette Kaminsky Leave a Comment

        This gingerbread playdough tray is filled with festive loose parts. The spicy playdough recipe is easy to make and little hands can help.
        This gingerbread playdough tray is filled with festive loose parts. The spicy playdough recipe is easy to make and little hands can help.

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        Christmas playdough recipes are all about the smells, and this gingerbread playdough is no exception. The fragrant recipe is easy to make and doesn’t require cooking or using boiling water. This makes it perfect for early learners to help make, and they can participate from start to finish.

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        Follow me on Pinterest for more early learning ideas.

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        The Playdough Ingredients

        This scented gingerbread playdough requires no cooking or boiling water. Invite early learners to help make it from start to finish and can experience all the aromatic smells.

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        Gather the following for this homemade gingerbread-scented dough:

        • 1 cup flour
        • ½ cup salt
        • 1 ½ teaspoon ground ginger
        • 1 ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
        • 1 teaspoon ground cloves
        • 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
        • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
        • ½ cup water

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        How To Make Gingerbread Playdough

        This homemade scented gingerbread playdough and the festive loose parts are ready to be explored by little learners.

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        Measure all of the above ingredients in a bowl. Invite early learners to help.

        Mix the spicy mixture into a dough, and knead it thoroughly. The kneading helps strengthen little helpers’ hand and finger muscles.

        Four spices in addition to salt are included in the dough. Allowing your little helpers to smell each one is a rich sensory opportunity.

        The spices add color to this all-natural playdough, so no additional color is needed.

        Another plus for this homemade playdough is that it can be used in a play invitation as soon as it has been made. It doesn’t need cool down time like a cooked playdough or recipe that uses boiling water would.

        This recipe can easily be doubled or tripled to be enough for a group of children.

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        Gingerbread Playdough Invitation

        After helping make the playdough, little learners will love using it to mold and decorate gingerbread houses and people. Offer loose parts in a party tray for a spicy playdough invitation.

        There are many opportunities to be creative with the festive loose parts in this spicy gingerbread playdough invitation your children will love.

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        The loose parts in the tray above are:

        • gingerbread house and people cookie cutters
        • gingerbread ornaments
        • cut sparkly pipe cleaners and pompoms
        • cut rick rack and straws
        • buttons
        • candy cane and gingerbread erasers
        • bows
        • bead garland
        • wiggly eyes

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        In this next tray, gingerbread house shapes, felt gingerbread people, beads, and rubber peppermint lollipops are included in the mix.

        There are many opportunities to be creative with the festive loose parts in this spicy gingerbread playdough invitation your children will love.

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        Gingerbread Playdough Invitation Benefits

        This heavenly-scented playdough invitation offers many benefits:

        • Exercising creativity by decorating pretend cookies.
        • Language development by using playdough cutouts to retell gingerbread stories or develop new ones.
        • Gaining hand and finger strength by rolling, pressing, and kneading dough, and decorating it with loose parts.
        • Role-playing working in a pretend bakery and baking cookies in a play oven.

        Tip: A small box with a rack placed inside makes an easy DIY oven for pretend play.

        A cardboard box with a rack set inside makes a terrific play oven to bake gingerbread playdough cookies and muffins.

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        How To Store Gingerbread Playdough

        This amazing gingerbread-scented dough is not sticky, rolls out just fine, and works well with cookie cutters.

        To store it, wrap it in saran wrap and place it in an airtight container. Doing this will keep it nice and moist. To my delight, the playdough is even easier to work with when you pull it out for additional play.

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        More Christmas Playdough Recipes:

        Christmas Playdough

        Chocolate Mint Playdough

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        [Read more…] about Gingerbread Playdough

        Filed Under: Christmas, playdough, preschool, sensory Tagged With: gingerbread, playdough, scented playdough, sensory tray

        Candy Cane Science Experiment

        January 1, 2022 by Annette Kaminsky Leave a Comment

        This easy-peasy candy cane science experiment shows immediate results and brings the WOW factor, perfect for little learners!
        This easy-peasy candy cane science experiment shows immediate results and brings the WOW factor, perfect for little learners!

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        This Christmas I went on a candy cane hunt, primarily to add a few of these festive treats to my preschoolers’ party bags. Although easy to find in the past, I visited three different stores before I spotted some.

        Candy canes had been brought up in class discussions, so I thought the children would be excited to discover them in their party bags. As I tried to give one child extra candy canes for his siblings, I noticed that he was furiously trying to give his original ones away. It turned out that he immensely dislikes them! So needless to say, there were a few candy canes leftover at school after the holiday celebrations.

        So then came Plan B…the decision to use some for this easy-peasy candy cane science experiment.

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        Supplies To Collect

        Gather just three supplies for an easy-to-perform candy cane or candy experiment with a WOW factor.

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        The supplies for this science experiment couldn’t be any simpler. Gather the following three things:

        • white or cream-colored dinner plate with a rim
        • cup of warm water
        • two large candy canes

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        Conducting The Candy Cane Science Experiment

        Try this candy cane Science experiment today! It is easy to do and has immediate results.

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        Place two candy canes in the center of the plate in a heart shape.

        Slowly pour in warm water to a level just beneath the plate rim.

        The food coloring will immediately diffuse from the candy canes, and the color patterns will change right before your eyes!

        This experiment can be tried with other colors of these treats. The red, pink, and white color scheme below would work perfectly for Valentine’s Day.

        This easy to perform heart-themed candy cane science experiment is perfect for Valentine's Day. Give it a try!

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        Variation Of The Candy Cane Experiment

        There was a second candy escapade this holiday season, as a type of striped, spherical, Christmas candies I purchased turned out to be much too hard. I tasted one, and it just wouldn’t dissolve in my mouth. I imagined students choking on the candy on the drive home from preschool, and didn’t want to risk that. As you might have guessed, the super hard candies didn’t make the treat bag cut.

        Conveniently, these holiday candies work in the same science experiment. In the picture below, the candies are arranged next to the rim of a plate. When warm water is added, green and red food colors slowly move through the liquid away from the candies. The process is so slow, the colors blend to make a rich brown hue soon after they spread. Since little learners love mixing colors to make brown, they would be excited to see this!

        An oh-so-easy Christmas candy science experiment. Can't you smell the candy already?

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        The candies can be placed a little farther apart around the plate rim, so the colors don’t mix as quickly when water is added.  Or they can be spread apart as in the picture below. Then moving red and green colors are visible a little while after warm water is added.

        Try this Christmas candy Science experiment today! It is easy to do and has immediate results.

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        Tip: If the colors in the candies dissolve at a snail’s pace, as in one of my experiments, you can choose to use hot water. This will speed up the scientific process. Make sure little learners observe what happens only with their eyes, keeping their hands and bodies away from the plate.

        After the science experiment is finished and the liquid is cool, you may wish to let your little charges taste a teaspoon of colored water. It will have a strong mint taste.

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        A simple Christmas candy science experiment with quick results. Can't you smell the candy already?

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        Explanation Of This Candy Cane/Candy Experiment

        The candy canes and candies are made of sugar. The water breaks the sugar molecules apart. Then the food colors move through the water from areas of higher sugar concentration (near the candy) to areas with less sugar (the center of the plate.) When the sugar concentration is the same in all areas, the colors stop moving.

        Water temperature is a variant in this experiment. Sugar dissolves quicker in warm water, and food coloring moves at a faster pace.

        This science experiment is so easy to set up and has immediate results, perfect for little learners. And participants get to use their senses of sight, smell, taste, and touch. Try it today with candies or candy canes!

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        This easy-peasy candy cane heart science experiment shows immediate results and brings the WOW factor, perfect for little learners!

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        [Read more…] about Candy Cane Science Experiment

        Filed Under: Christmas, party, preschool, science, sensory, Valentine's Day Tagged With: candy canes, Christmas, colors, hearts, science experiment

        CD Case Christmas Craft

        December 24, 2021 by Annette Kaminsky Leave a Comment

        Make this cozy CD case Christmas craft in a variety of festive color schemes. A fun craft for the whole family to do.
        Make this cozy CD case Christmas craft in a variety of festive color schemes. A fun craft for the whole family to do.

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        An empty or used empty CD case can be turned into a beautiful art or craft project. There are many creative ideas to try. For this blog post, I’m choosing to feature a CD case Christmas craft.

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        Follow me on Pinterest for more creative ideas.

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        Supplies To Collect

        Gather the following for this seasonal craft:

        • clear CD jewel case
        • thin unpainted wood holiday decoration
        • festive cardstock
        • acrylic craft paint
        • scissors
        • ruler
        • glue stick
        • white glue or glue gun
        • craft bits: pony beads, holiday confetti, garland strips, sequins, punched paper snowflakes

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        Assembling The CD Case Christmas Craft

        Steps to making a CD case Christmas craft. An all-ages craft the whole family can do.

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        Carefully remove the tray from a clear CD case.

        Trim the cardstock pattern of choice to the size of the case.

        With the case open, use a glue stick to adhere the cut cardstock to the bottom right section.

        Paint a thin holiday-themed wood decoration with acrylic paint and let it dry. The paint and decoration can easily be found at dollar stores.

        Note: Acrylic paint dries quickly and comes in a large variety of colors. It’s so fun to use!

        Glue the painted wood shape to the cardstock.

        Add craft bits of choice.

        Close the case snugly.

        Make this easy and fun holiday-themed CD craft today!

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        Display on a shelf or wall in the classroom or your home.

        Tips: The craft bits can be glued down so they are stationary or left movable.

        These holiday-themed CD case crafts are a lot of fun to make. Have the whole family create one!

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        These charming CD case Christmas crafts are perfect for displaying during the holiday season.

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        If desired, add a clear seal to keep the CD case closed.

        You may wish to make this CD case Christmas craft in a variety of holiday and winter themes. The craft lends itself to being showcased in groups.

        Make this cozy CD case Christmas craft in a variety of festive color schemes. An all-ages family craft.

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        Of course, little learners can get in on making this creative craft. The activity could be a cooperative one for a parent/teacher/caregiver and child.

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        CD Case Christmas Blocks

        Instead of displaying the crafted CD jewel cases, include them on a table with blocks for little learners to use in construction play. This is an idea I look forward to exploring in the future.

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        Make this winter-themed snowman CD case craft today! It's easy and fun to do.

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        [Read more…] about CD Case Christmas Craft

        Filed Under: art, block play, Christmas, crafts, display, preschool, sensory, winter Tagged With: Christmas crafts, crafts, holiday, reindeer, snowflakes, snowmen

        Plaid-Themed Christmas Rice Bin

        December 24, 2021 by Annette Kaminsky Leave a Comment

        This plaid-themed Christmas rice bin is filled with cozy items for little learners to explore. A traditional bin to offer every year.
        This plaid-themed Christmas rice bin is filled with cozy items for little learners to explore. A traditional bin to offer every year.

        _______

        Sensory bins are one of my favorite things to put together. There is a multitude of themes for bins to choose from, and so many interesting loose parts to include. Sometimes one or two items provide inspiration for a whole bin. And that’s the case with this rustic plaid-themed Christmas rice bin.

        A few years ago, I spotted plaid gift boxes at Michael’s and snapped a couple up. Right then and there I got the idea for this cozy bin. It took a while to collect enough intriguing items for little learners to explore. This year the concept finally came together.

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        Plaid-Themed Christmas Rice Bin

        The container to hold all the sensory supplies is an inexpensive spiral saucer sled!

        Glutinous rice is the base. I like it a lot because its super white color provides good contrast for the contents of the bin.  One five kg bag fills the saucer-shaped container nicely.

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        Plaid-themed Christmas items scattered over the rice are:

        • gift boxes
        • plush ornament balls
        • sheep fridge magnets
        • nutcracker soldier marionette ornament
        • cuddly bear
        • shovel ornament
        • small photo frame accented with jingle bells
        • Santa train engine cookie tin on wheels
        A delightful plaid-themed holiday rice bin filled with cozy items for little learners to explore year after year.

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        The photo frame could be personalized with a picture of a little learner.

        The bells on the frame add a musical element to the play experience, always a plus.

        The nutcracker soldier has a special feature: his legs do the splits when the attached string is pulled.

        Undoubtedly the Santa train engine cookie tin is the highlight of the holiday-themed bin.

        Cozy plaid-themed Christmas gift boxes and ornaments to fill a holiday rice bin.

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        Tip: If you try a version of this activity, make sure there are no sharp edges on the items you choose for your bin.

        Have you put together a unique sensory bin? I’d love to hear about it.

        _______

        [Read more…] about Plaid-Themed Christmas Rice Bin

        Filed Under: Christmas, preschool, sensory Tagged With: Christmas, rice bin, sensory bin

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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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