• Skip to secondary menu
  • Skip to main content
  • Skip to primary sidebar

Putting The Pretty In Preschool

Finding Beauty In Everyday Early Childhood Experiences

  • About Me
  • Sensory Play
  • Holidays
  • Places
  • Picture Book Themes
  • Growing Things
  • Ocean
  • Contact Me

sensory

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.

_______

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.

_______

Follow me on Pinterest for more early learning ideas.

_______

Supplies To Collect

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

_______

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

_______

The Circus Playdough Invitation To Play

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

_______

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.

_______

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

_______

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.

_______

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

_______

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

_______

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

_______

[Read more…] about Circus Playdough Tray

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

Tea Party Sensory Play

May 14, 2023 by Annette Kaminsky Leave a Comment

Easy-to-set-up tea party sensory trays for water or rice bin play. Miniature tea sets are the highlights of the sensory play.
Easy-to-set-up tea party sensory trays for water or rice bin play. Miniature tea sets are the highlights of the sensory play.

_______

These tea party sensory play ideas provide possibilities for easy, affordable, and fun learning through play. Only a few low-cost supplies are needed for the activities.

_______

Follow me on Pinterest for more early learning ideas.

_______

Tea Party Sensory Play Supplies

Here are the supplies for easy-to-set-up, engaging tea party sensory play:

  • toy tea sets
  • measuring cup
  • container for water
  • low edged trays
  • toy fruit counters
  • fruit-themed reusable ice cubes
  • play food cookies, cupcakes, and squares
  • rice
  • waterproof apron
  • spill proof tablecloth
  • water supply

_______

A black, red, and white theme sets the tone for a super inviting tea party water play sensory invitation.

_______

Preparing For Tea Party Sensory Play

To prepare this sensory activity, first, cover a table with a spill-proof tablecloth.

Next, select a toy tea set, a container for water, and a few play food fruits or desserts and set them on a tray on the table.

Then fill the container and teapot with water.

Now this tea party play invitation is ready to explore. Setting up for a sensory activity couldn’t be any easier!

_______

Tea Party Sensory Play Variations

Larger and smaller tea sets and fruit and dessert play food are options to add variety to tea party sensory play.

This black and white diagonally striped placemat enhances the visual appeal.

A black, red, and white theme sets the tone for a super inviting tea party water play sensory invitation.

_______

A silver-edged, gilded mirror tray exudes elegance.

This silver-edged, gilded mirror tray is paired with a dainty miniature tea set for super inviting tea party water play.

_______

A shiny aluminum foil pizza pan is an inviting alternative and the larger tea cups have more room to hold fruit.

Toy fruit counters add interest to this easy-to-set-up tea party water play sensory invitation for early learners.

_______

The dainty miniature dollar store tea set below is super affordable and little learners love to handle the tiny pieces.

Tea party water play is extra inviting with a miniature tea set on this silveredged gilded mirror tray.

_______

For more variety, offer a tea set and accessories in a rice bin or tray.

Dessert playfood and a toy tea set are inviting to play with when set in a rice-based sensory bin.

_______

Dessert playfood and a miniature toy tea set are inviting to play with when set in a rice-based sensory bin.

_______

Eye-hand coordination, practice with self-help skills, exploring capacity, language development, and just plain fun are goals for these sensory activities.

Tea party sensory play is perfect for Mother’s Day or any time of the year. And it works fabulously for outdoor playtime.

_______

Related:

Strawberry Hot Chocolate Bin

Strawberry Lemonade Sensory Bin

_______

[Read more…] about Tea Party Sensory Play

Filed Under: dramatic play, Mother's Day, party, preschool, pretend play, sensory Tagged With: dramatic play, Mother's Day, pretend play, rice bin, sensory bin, sensory play, sensory tray

Popcorn Spice Mother’s Day Craft

May 13, 2023 by Annette Kaminsky Leave a Comment

A simple and aromatic Mother's Day craft that is super fun to make. Use spices, seasonings, or herbs for this sensory craft activity,
A simple and aromatic Mother's Day craft that is super fun to make. Use spices, sesonings or herbs for this sensory craft activity,

_______

This simple and aromatic popcorn spice Mother’s Day craft is so fun to make. And it really caters to the sense of smell. Warning: there may be a few sneezes while doing this activity!

_______

Follow me on Pinterest for more early learning ideas.

_______

Supplies Used In The Craft

The following easy-to-find supplies are used in this spicy craft:

  • popcorn seasonings: butter salt, jalapeno cheddar, ketchup, and all dressed
  • small bowls and spoons
  • dessert plates
  • brown cardstock paper
  • cream-colored cardstock paper
  • scissors and pencil
  • glue stick
  • tablecloth

_______

The Popcorn Spice Mother’s Day Craft

To make this craft, first, cover a table with a washable tablecloth.

Next, trace and cut out four “wooden spoons” from brown cardstock paper. Use the printable below for the spoons or design your own.

A spoon template for crafting.

_______

Spoon PrintableDownload

_______

Then spoon popcorn seasonings into small bowls.

Four popcorn seasoning flavors for an aromatic Mother's Day craft project.

_______

Afterward, use a glue stick to spread a thick layer of glue on the head of a spoon.

Next, hold the paper spoon over a dessert-sized plate and sprinkle a generous amount of popcorn seasoning on it.

Then shake off excess seasoning and let the spoon dry.

An oh-so-easy and fun popcorn seasoning Mother's Day craft to do in one sitting. Explore the sense of smell with this aromatic craft activity.

_______

Repeat the process with all the spoons and seasonings.

Then use the glue stick to affix the spoons to a paper background.

A simple and aromatic Mother's Day craft that is super fun to make. Use spices, sesonings or herbs for this sensory craft activity,

_______

Finally, add the words “You Spice Up My Life” and “Happy Mother’s Day.” Feel free to use the template below for this craft.

Mother's Day craft template for an aromatic keepsake project for mom.

_______

Spiced Mother’s Day Craft PrintableDownload

_______

This template is perfect for grandma.

Mother's Day craft template for an aromatic keepsake project for grandma.

_______

Spicy Mother’s Day Craft TemplateDownload

_______

The bright yellow butter salt and ketchup seasonings add pops of color to the craft. Herbs or other spices could be substituted. What seasonings would you use?

A simple and aromatic Mother's Day craft that is super fun to make. Use spices, sesonings or herbs for this sensory craft activity,

_______

Related:

Mother’s Day Floral Craft

Mother’s Day Crafts And Gifts

_______

[Read more…] about Popcorn Spice Mother’s Day Craft

Filed Under: art, crafts, Mother's Day, preschool, sensory Tagged With: Mother's Day craft, paper crafts, printables, sensory play

Easter Peeps Houses

April 1, 2023 by Annette Kaminsky 2 Comments

Make two different Easter peeps houses with graham crackers and chick and bunny peeps. Create one with your little learner today!
Make two different Easter peeps houses with graham crackers and chick and bunny peeps. Create one with your little learner today!

_______

These cute Easter peeps houses take gingerbread house-making into the Easter season. And the chick peep coop and bunny peep hutch are easy-peasy to make together with little learners.

_______

Follow me on Pinterest for more early learning ideas.

_______

Supplies To Collect

Gather the following supplies to make these sweet graham cracker houses:

  • bunny and chick peeps
  • Easter bunny rabbit jubes
  • graham crackers
  • powdered sugar icing
  • cornstarch
  • water
  • assortment of candies
  • green candy sprinkles
  • green gel icing color
  • mixer or whisk
  • plates, spoons, and disposable knives

_______

Making The Easter Peeps Houses

An oh-so-tasty graham cracker Easter bunny hutch everyone will enjoy making. A sure-to-please Easter activity.

_______

For this activity, I use powdered sugar icing, a little cornstarch, and water to make the icing.  It’s ideal to have powdered gingerbread house icing available, but I couldn’t find any on short notice.

Start by mixing a few scoops of powdered sugar icing, a teaspoon of cornstarch, and a little water in a bowl. Blend ingredients with a mixer or whisk for a couple of minutes. The icing mixture should be thick and tacky. Add a little more icing sugar if the mixture is too thin, or add a tad more water if it is too thick.

Then set aside some of the icing in a bowl and stir in a tiny bit of green gel icing color.

Next, spread plain icing on the edges of graham crackers and gently assemble them together to make five sides of a cube, leaving one side open. Disposable knives are a good size for little learners to work with.

An oh-so-tasty graham cracker Easter chick coop craft everyone will enjoy making. A sure-to-please Easter activity.

_______

Note: Name-brand graham crackers are best to use because they are sturdier, don’t break as easily, and come in bigger pieces. Featured here is a no-name brand.

Afterward, select candies to decorate the Easter peeps house with. I feature miniature M&M’s and jelly bellies.

Easter peeps and an assortment of candy to make graham cracker Easter peeps houses.

_______

Then spread icing on the sides and tops of the graham cracker house and decorate with candies of choice.

If little learners are participating, allow some snacking while working. There will be interesting discussions about candy types, colors, and tastes!

_______

A Peep Bunny Hutch Or Chick Coop

Create this cute Easter bunny hutch with graham crackers, a peeps bunny, and candy treats. It's an all-ages craft sure to be enjoyed.

_______

To make an edible bunny hutch scene, spoon a layer of green icing on a plate. Make sure the plate is disposable if participants are taking their tasty creation home.

Then set in the graham cracker “hutch.” Add a few candy sprinkles around it.

Spread a generous amount of icing on the floor of the house and set in two Easter bunny rabbit jubes. These can be bunny babies.

Finally, drop candy sprinkles on the green icing to look like grass, and add an Easter bunny peep and a few gummy eggs.

Create this cute Easter chick coop with graham crackers, a peeps chick, and candy treats. It's an all-ages craft sure to be enjoyed.

_______

For the chick peep coop scene, set the coop on a plate with green icing, and add candy sprinkles and gummy eggs. Then place the Easter chick peep in the coop.

Create this cute Easter bunny hutch with graham crackers, a peeps bunny, and candy treats. It's an all-ages craft sure to be enjoyed.

_______

These Easter peeps houses are sure to delight little learners and their families. Do you have any suggestions for how to make them? Leave a comment below.

An oh-so-tasty graham cracker Easter chick coop craft everyone will enjoy making. A sure-to-please Easter activity.

_______

Related:

Bunny Candy Art

Valentine’s Day Gingerbread Cookies

Easy S’Mores Bars

_______

[Read more…] about Easter Peeps Houses

Filed Under: crafts, desserts, Easter, Food Art, preschool, sensory, spring Tagged With: Easter, food art, spring

Spring Bunny Play Tablescape

March 27, 2023 by Annette Kaminsky Leave a Comment

Set up this super colorful spring bunny play tablescape in minutes. Bunny-themed loose parts take center stage in the setup.
Set up this super colorful spring bunny play tablescape in minutes. Bunny-themed loose parts take center stage in the setup.

_______

Bunnies are a symbol of spring, and can easily be spotted hopping around neighborhoods at this time of year. They are associated with abundance, rebirth, new beginnings, and fertility. And just as these four-legged garden lovers are prevalent outdoors, bunny-themed accessories are easy to snag in stores at the moment. Here’s a collection of accessories featured in a spring bunny play tablescape.

_______

Follow me on Pinterest for more early learning ideas.

_______

Spring Bunny Tablescape Supplies

Bunny-themed loose parts for a spring dramatic play tablescape your little learners will love to play in.

_______

The following bunny-themed supplies are featured in the colorful pretend play setup:

  • paper plates and cutlery
  • clear disposable goblets
  • serving bowls
  • carrot-shaped treat holders
  • bowling pins
  • bunny builder construction toy
  • large pompom balls
  • erasers
  • foam beads
  • squish bunny party favors
  • cookie cutters
  • miniature stuffed bunny
  • fillable bunnies
  • hopping bunny and basket game
  • artificial spring branch

_______

The Spring Bunny Play Tablescape

Bunny-themed loose parts take center stage in this super fun Easter bunny dramatic play invitation.

_______

The list above shows the possibilities for collecting accessories for this vibrant dramatic play invitation. Just a few of the supplies will keep a play kitchen center interesting and engaging.

Game pieces and fillable treat holders work wonderfully as play kitchen loose parts.

Early learners will use their imagination to turn these loose parts into muffins, cookies, candies, and other kinds of food.

During the spring season, these kinds of supplies are prevalent at dollar and discount stores, and in the seasonal section of most grocery stores.

A super fun bunny pretend play invitation that is quick and easy to set up. It's perfect for an Easter or spring theme.

_______

This bunny-themed play tablescape works well during the Easter season and can be offered as part of a spring theme.

A super fun bunny dramatic play invitation that is quick and easy to set up. It's perfect for an Easter or spring theme.

_______

Related:

Easter Pretend Play Tablescape

Lemon-Inspired Play Kitchen

Watermelon Dramatic Play

Fall Tablescape Pretend Play

Pumpkin Tablescape Pretend Play

Thanksgiving Tablescape Pretend Play

Kid’s Winter Wonderland Tablescape

Penguin Pretend Play Tablescape

Chinese New Year Tablescape

Valentine’s Day Pretend Play

_______

Set up this super colorful Easter bunny play tablescape in minutes. Bunny-themed loose parts take center stage in the setup.
[Read more…] about Spring Bunny Play Tablescape

Filed Under: dramatic play, Easter, preschool, pretend play, sensory, spring, themes Tagged With: bunnies, dramatic play, Easter, loose parts, play kitchen, pretend play, spring, tablescapes

Bunny Rice Bin

March 26, 2023 by Annette Kaminsky Leave a Comment

Usher in spring in fashion with this bunny rice bin. A long-legged bunny and green and white eggs and loose parts are in the bin.
Usher in spring in fashion with this bunny rice bin. A long-legged bunny and green and white eggs and loose parts are in the bin.

_______

We’re ready for spring, and this bunny rice bin is definitely helping to usher it in. The green and white seasonal color scheme is inspired by beautiful bunny-themed eggs discovered on a shopping run.

_______

Follow me on Pinterest for more early learning ideas.

_______

Supplies To Collect

This spring bunny loose parts tray features green and white bunnies, eggs, and loose parts.

_______

For this calming rice bin, gather the following supplies:

  • stuffed Easter bunny
  • decorative Easter eggs
  • Easter basket
  • shredded Easter grass
  • bunny erasers
  • marbles
  • container caps
  • transparent triangles
  • bendable bunny figurine
  • Easter grass
  • glutinous rice
  • bus tub

_______

The Bunny Rice Bin

The bin of choice is a white bus tub. It is large enough to fit a variety of contents and is suitable for 2-3 children to use at once.

The base for this bin is white glutinous rice. It is my absolute favorite base because it showcases the supplies in a bin so well.

The sensory bin theme is inspired by decorative green and white eggs snapped up at a dollar store on a routine shopping run.

This green and white bunny-themed rice bin gives you all the feels. Loose parts coordinate with the bunnies and eggs in the bin.

_______

It took a little while to find a matching stuffed bunny, but eventually, I discovered a unique one at another dollar store. The sprawling bunny adds character to the bin.

Green paper Easter grass adds texture to the glutinous rice base.

An Easter basket, bendable bunny, and bunny erasers all in green come from my Easter theme storage tub.

And green transparent triangles, marbles, and container caps picked from my loose parts collection round out the supplies in the bin.

This green and white bunny-themed rice bin gives you all the feels. Loose parts coordinate with the bunnies and eggs in the bin.

_______

Any color scheme will work wonderfully for this bunny rice bin. Selecting two or three feature colors for the bin makes setting it up that much more fun.

________

More Bunny Activities

Easter Bunny Sensory Bins

Silhouette Bunny Art

Spring Bunny Canvas Art

Bunny Rolling Pin Art

Bunny Candy Art

_______

[Read more…] about Bunny Rice Bin

Filed Under: Easter, preschool, sensory, spring Tagged With: bunnies, Easter, loose parts, sensory bin, sensory play, spring

St. Patrick’s Day Light Table

March 14, 2023 by Annette Kaminsky Leave a Comment

This St. Patrick's Day light table is filled with green transparent loose parts and treasures little learners will love to explore.
This St. Patrick's Day light table is filled with green transparent loose parts and treasures little learners will love to explore.

_______

Setting up activities for the light table is one of my favorite things to do, and the light table is a well-loved center in our classroom. A perfect center for March, this St. Patrick’s Day light table setup is full of captivating loose parts for early learners to explore.

_______

Follow me on Pinterest for more early learning ideas.

_______

Supplies Collected

This oh-so-green St. Patrick's Day light table activity filled with transparent loose parts is super fun for early learners to explore.

_______

The following transparent loose parts are gathered for this very green light table center:

  • light-up rubber bear
  • bear figurine
  • shamrocks
  • numbers
  • stir sticks
  • tiny cups
  • gem animal figurines
  • reusable shamrock ice cubes
  • shamrock serving tray
  • pebble-shaped gems
  • light-up shamrock necklaces
  • pair of party eyeglasses
  • construction toy
This oh-so-green St. Patrick's Day light table activity filled with transparent loose parts is super fun for early learners to explore.

_______

A vase with artificial flowers, a leprechaun figurine, and a pair of St. Patrick’s Day glasses round out the supplies on the table.

________

The St. Patrick’s Day Light Table Center

This St. Patrick's Day light table is filled with green transparent loose parts and treasures little learners will love to explore.

_______

For this light-illuminated center, I started off by checking my St. Patrick’s Day supplies for green transparent objects. These have been collected over the years from Dollar stores and party supply stores.

Next, I scrounged through my tub of green loose parts for interesting things to add, selecting the light-up bear, transparent pebbles and stir sticks.

Then I looked through my light table supplies and gathered mostly green and a few yellow transparent objects, such as a bear figurine, transparent construction toys, numbers, and tiny animal figurines.

An opportunity to sort shamrocks on a St. Patrick's Day light table filled with green transparent loose parts.

_______

An opportunity to sort green loose parts on a St. Patrick's Day light table filled with transparent treasures to explore.

_______

Finally, on a recent trip to a dollar store I purchased two light-up necklaces. I included them after little learners had a week to explore the center, offering my little charges new items that continued their interest in this St. Patrick’s Day activity.

A green shamrock light-up necklace is a highlight in a St. Patrick's Day light table center.

_______

A green shamrock light-up necklace and pair of glasses are highlights in a St. Patrick's Day light table center.

_______

View this center as a St. Patrick’s Day Light Table Video.

_______

More Light Table Activities

St. Patrick’s Day Light Table Tray

Canada Day Light Table

_______

[Read more…] about St. Patrick’s Day Light Table

Filed Under: light table, preschool, sensory, St. Patrick's Day Tagged With: light table, loose parts, sensory play, St. Patrick's Day

Shamrock Leaf Print Art

March 12, 2023 by Annette Kaminsky Leave a Comment

How to make beautiful shamrock leaf print art with sprigs from an Oxalis Regnelli plant. An easy-to-do all-ages art project.
How to make beautiful shamrock leaf print art with sprigs from an Oxalis Regnelli plant. An easy-to-do all-ages art project.

_______

Shamrock leaf print art is an activity I’ve wanted to try for a few years now, and this spring I carved out time for it. The art project is easy and enjoyable to do, and I am sure you will like it too.

A good time to try this leaf print art activity is around St. Patrick’s Day, as shamrock plants are plentiful in stores then. The compound leaves on the plant look like the shamrock symbol that the country of Ireland is known for. Irish people think shamrocks represent good luck, and they are prominent in clothing, decorations, and tableware during St. Patrick’s Day celebrations.

An Oxalis Regnelli shamrock plant with compound leaves composed of three triangular leaflets.

_______

The shamrock plant I found is called Oxalis Regnellii, which comes from Africa and some parts of the Americas. It has delicate leaves with three triangle-shaped leaflets. The leaves fold up neatly on overcast days and anytime it is dark, and open up when they are exposed to sunlight. The tiny, white, long-stemmed flowers have five petals.

A tiny white flower on an Oxalis Regnellii plant.

_______

Follow me on Pinterest for more early learning ideas.

_______

Supplies To Collect

Gather the following supplies for this nature-based art project:

  • shamrock plant
  • green and purple acrylic or tempera paint
  • paint pots
  • paintbrushes
  • purple and green pencil crayons
  • all-purpose art paper
  • green and purple construction paper
  • newspaper or manila paper
  • magnifying glasses

_______

Making The Shamrock Leaf Print Art

Before using the shamrock leaves for printmaking, give participants a chance to study the plant. Offer magnifying glasses to view the leaves and dainty flowers with yellow stamens. Set the plant out in a sunny place and then put it in a dark area to see how its leaves fold down and spread out depending on how much sunlight the plant is getting.

To prepare the art activity, snip a few leaves off the plant to use for making paint prints.

Steps to make beautiful shamrock leaf print art. This is an easy-to-do all-ages nature art project

_______

Next, lay down newspaper sheets or a large piece of manilla paper for participants to work on.

Then add an art station with a sheet of all-purpose art paper, leaf sprig, paintbrush, and green acrylic paint for each participant. My paper size is an 11-inch x 14-inch inch sheet cut in half, creating a 7-inch x 11-inch piece to work on.

Note: Non-toxic tempera paint is a good choice for young children taking part in the activity.

Afterward, invite participants to brush the tops of the leaflets on their sprig thoroughly with green paint, flip the leaf over, and carefully press the painted sides down on the paper.  Have them gently rub their fingers over the leaflets and pat the edges down to transfer as much paint to the paper as possible.

Beautiful shamrock leaf print art with leaves from the Oxalis Regnelli plant. This is a nature art project that is perfect for St. Patrick's Day.

_______

Then ask everyone to slowly lift their leaf off the paper canvas and repaint it to make more leaf prints. The shamrock leaves are delicate, but when handled gently they can be used a few times. If someone’s leaf tears, offer a new sprig to use.

When the paint prints are dry, ask participants to use a pencil crayon to add stems to the leaves.

As a finishing touch, mount each shamrock leaf print art project on a similar-colored construction paper background.

_______

Making Purple Shamrock Leaf Print Art

A purple shamrock, called Oxalis Triangularis, has similarly shaped leaves and flowers as the Oxalis Regnallii. This purple shamrock showcases deep purple, dark-edged leaves that respond to darkness and light in the same way.

A purple shamrock plant with compound leaves composed of three triangular leaflets.

_______

With purple acrylic or tempera paint, let participants create shamrock prints just as they were made in green.

Beautiful shamrock leaf print art with leaves from the Oxalis Regnelli plant. This is a nature art project that is perfect for St. Patrick's Day.

_______

If there are any leaves left on the plant after the printmaking activity is done, add them to a playdough activity. Or have someone without pets take the plant home to care for.

Note: All Oxalis plants are toxic to dogs, cats, and grazing animals such as horses and must be kept out of their reach. These plants are slightly toxic to humans. Make sure to supervise all shamrock leaf activities closely so that no one ingests the leaves.

How to make beautiful shamrock leaf print art with sprigs from an Oxalis Regnelli plant. An easy-to-do all-ages art project.

_______

Related:

Horse Chestnut Leaf Art Activities

Maple Leaf Activities

_______

[Read more…] about Shamrock Leaf Print Art

Filed Under: art, playdough, preschool, science, sensory, spring, St. Patrick's Day Tagged With: art, leaf prints, leaves, printmaking, shamrocks, St. Patrick's Day

Polar Bear Small World

February 22, 2023 by Annette Kaminsky Leave a Comment

A professional stage light adds ambiance to this inviting northern lights-inspired polar bear small world.
A professional stage light adds ambiance to this inviting northern lights-inspired polar bear small world.

_______

Two of the most majestic things to see in the Arctic are polar bears and northern lights. It is not uncommon to spot them depicted together in far north artworks. A memory of an award-winning painting of polar bears trekking across a snowy landscape lit up by northern lights is what inspired this lighted polar bear small world.

_______

Follow me on Pinterest for more early learning ideas.

_______

Supplies To Collect

This polar bear small world is inspired by northern lights, which are often visible in Arctic skies at night.

_______

To set up a mesmerizing polar bear small world, gather together the following supplies:

  • polar bear figurines
  • LED stage light
  • white pompoms
  • acrylic snowflakes
  • clear acrylic ice cubes
  • silver placemat
  • turquoise placemat
  • toy igloo, ice floe, tent, and snow vehicle
  • white tablecloth
  • scissors

_______

The Polar Bear Small World

A professional stage light adds interest to this northern lights-inspired polar bear small world.

_______

To put together this polar bear-themed small world, start by covering a table with a white tablecloth to create a “snowy” base.

Next, add placemats to represent ice and water. A silver placemat suggests ice. A turquoise placemat trimmed with scissors becomes “a body of water.”

Then set up a LED stage light at one end of the table.

Afterward, add polar bear figurines, pompom “snowballs,” acrylic snowflakes, and clear ice cubes.

If available, include arctic toys such as an igloo, ice floe, research tent, and snow vehicle. These will add imaginary play possibilities to the small world.

Finally, turn on the LED stage light to illuminate the scene. You can set the stage light to one color, or have it project alternating colors such as green, blue, red, and purple.

A professional stage light adds interest to this northern lights-inspired polar bear small world.

_______

For a stunning art activity and facts about northern lights, view the blog post “Northern Lights Squish Painting.”

To learn facts about polar bears and other arctic animals, visit the blog post “Arctic Animal Sensory Trays.”

_______

A professional stage light adds ambiance to this inviting northern lights-inspired polar bear small world.

_______

Related: Igloo Camping Pretend Play

_______

[Read more…] about Polar Bear Small World

Filed Under: dramatic play, preschool, pretend play, science, sensory, winter Tagged With: light, northern lights, polar bears, small worlds

Loose Part Jewelry Heart

February 19, 2023 by Annette Kaminsky Leave a Comment

An invitation to create a loose-part jewelry heart with costume jewelry pieces. This is a gorgeous all-ages transient art project.
An invitation to create a loose-part jewelry heart with costume jewelry pieces. This is a gorgeous all-ages transient art project.

_______

Do you have some costume jewelry you no longer wear? Have you picked up vintage jewelry at a garage sale or second-hand store? It will be perfect for this beautiful loose-part jewelry heart invitation to create.

_______

Follow me on Pinterest for more early learning ideas.

_______

Supplies To Collect

An invitation to create a gorgeous loose-part jewelry heart with costume jewelry pieces. This is an all-ages transient art project everyone will enjoy.

_______

For this easy-to-set-up transient heart art activity, gather the following supplies:

  • large wooden canvas frame
  • wood heart plaque
  • vintage costume jewelry
  • small containers

_______

The Loose Part Jewelry Heart Play Invitation

An invitation to create a loose-part jewelry heart with costume jewelry pieces. This is a gorgeous all-ages transient art project.

_______

To prepare this gorgeous loose part play invitation, first, select a large wooden canvas frame. My frame is approximately 12 inches wide and 16 inches long.

Flip the frame over and use the backside.

Note: A serving tray or an art frame with the back removed also work well for this activity.

Next, put a wood heart plaque inside the frame.

Then cut costume jewelry into pieces suitable for loose part play. Make sure there are no rough edges on the jewelry.

Place the jewelry bits into small containers and set them in the corners of the canvas frame. Add more jewelry pieces around the frame if available.

Finally, set the canvas frame on a table and invite little learners to take turns decorating the heart with jewelry treasures.

A gorgeous loose-part jewelry heart created with costume jewelry pieces. This is an all-ages transient art project everyone will enjoy.

_______

Benefits Of Loose Parts Play

In this loose part jewelry heart play invitation, early learners get to:

  • engage in open-ended play
  • practice sorting, counting, and color matching
  • strengthen finger muscles by moving and arranging jewelry pieces
  • experience beautiful objects with different colors and textures
  • create unique patterns and designs
  • focus on a task and be mindful
  • develop higher thinking skills

_______

A gorgeous loose-part jewelry heart created with costume jewelry pieces. This is an all-ages transient art project everyone will enjoy.

_______

More Loose Part Heart Decorating

On another day, offer this loose part heart invitation to create with polished agate slices and precious rocks and gemstones.

A gorgeous loose-part precious rock heart created with polished agate slices. This is an all-ages transient art project everyone will enjoy.

_______

An invitation to create a loose-part precious rock heart with polished agate slices. This is a gorgeous all-ages transient art project.

_______

A gorgeous loose-part precious rock heart created with polished agate slices. This is an all-ages transient art project everyone will enjoy.

_______

Related:

Jewelry Sensory Tray

St. Patrick’s Jewelry Sensory Bin

_______

[Read more…] about Loose Part Jewelry Heart

Filed Under: art, Mother's Day, preschool, science, sensory, Valentine's Day Tagged With: hearts, jewelry, loose parts, rocks, transient art, Valentine's Day

  • Go to page 1
  • Go to page 2
  • Go to page 3
  • Interim pages omitted …
  • Go to page 15
  • Go to Next Page »

Primary Sidebar

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!

Instagram

puttingtheprettyin.preschool

St.Patrick’s Day Playdough Tray #StPatrick’s D St.Patrick’s Day Playdough Tray
#StPatrick’s Day #HappyStPatricksDay #playdoughtray #sensorydough #playdough #handson #tactileplay #preschoolactivity #homeschoolpreschool #Edmontonblogger #Canadianblogger #Canadianteacher #teacherblogger #celebratetoday #green #yellow #homemadeplaydough #playdoughfun #greenandgold #kindergarten #puttingtheprettyinpreschool
St. Patrick’s Day Pretend Play Tablescape #StPa St. Patrick’s Day Pretend Play Tablescape

#StPatricksDay #shamrocks #pretendplay #dramaticplay #playkitchen #preschoolactivities #kindergartenactivities StPatricksDaydecor #earlylearning #playideas #tablescapes #tablescapestyling #StPatrickstheme #StPatricksDayparty #puttingtheprettyinpreschool
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. ❄️❄️❄️

#treasureblocks #blockplay #wintertheme #penguin #penguins #polarbear #polarbears #northern #northernCanada #Antarctica #looseparts #loosepartsplay #winterplay #puttingtheprettyinpreschool
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. 🎄⛄️🦌

#CDcaseart #DIYblocks #Christmascrafts #snowmancrafts #Christmastrees #treeart #Christmasbling #creativecrafts #snowmen #reindeer #Christmascrafting #craftsforkids #puttingtheprettyinpreschool #teacherofig #instateacher #prekteacher #eyfsideas #earlylearning
Remembrance Day everyday object printed poppy beca Remembrance Day everyday object printed poppy because “We Remember.”

#RemembranceDay #weremember #WeRememberThem #poppyart #printmaking #printmakingart #easyart #funart #meaningfulart #preschoolart #kindergartenart #artforkids #keepingkidsbusy #puttingtheprettyinpreschool
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
Load More Follow on Instagram

Subscribe Via Email

Recent Posts

  • Outer Space Pretend Play May 26, 2023
  • Circus Playdough Tray May 21, 2023
  • Spin Painting Butterflies May 19, 2023
  • Tea Party Sensory Play May 14, 2023
  • Popcorn Spice Mother’s Day Craft May 13, 2023
  • Dot Marker Easter Bunnies April 8, 2023
  • Paper Plate Easter Basket April 2, 2023
  • Easter Peeps Houses April 1, 2023
  • Spring Bunny Play Tablescape March 27, 2023
  • Bunny Rice Bin March 26, 2023

Categories

Topics

block play bunnies Chinese New Year Christmas Christmas craft Christmas tree colors dramatic play Easter eggs fall flowers Happy New Year hearts holiday jewelry keepsakes leaves leprechauns light table loose parts New Year's Eve painting paper crafts playdough play kitchen pretend play printables process art pumpkins rice bin scented playdough science experiment scissor skills sensory bin sensory play sensory tray shamrocks spiders spring St. Patrick's Day sunflowers tablescapes Valentine's Day water play

Copyright © 2023 · Lifestyle Pro on Genesis Framework · WordPress · Log in