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Learning Together Joyfully: July Jollies

Welcome back educators, parents and grandparents! School is behind us and summer is here. You may be considering some camping trips, visits to the beach or visits with relatives. It is a quiet time to relax and enjoy. Routines may be set aside and bedtimes may be later. It is a time for parents to find activities for children to keep them engaged. Enjoy July as you play, learn and grow together.

Quick Links

Use these links to quickly navigate to specific sections within this blog!

  1. Read and Sing Together
  2. Create Together: Puzzles, Crafts, Drawing and Constructing
  3. Explore, Engage & Interact Together
  4. Healthy Living: Movement & Nutrition
  5. Reflect: Thoughts of the Day About Learning

1.  Read and Sing Together 📚 

Understanding what we are reading is key and is certainly the main point of teaching reading in a class. Understanding a text is quite a complex issue. Planning our reading lessons is essential, and we need to make sure that our aims are clear and that the text and tasks are appropriate. In many cases we can relate our questions to what we do in real life with the type of text we choose. In other words, what do we read in real-life situations? Why do we read these texts? What is the purpose of the writer and of the reader (us, in this case)? How do we read the text in order to get what we need from it? 

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  • Questions to Use With Picture Books About Risk-Taking
  • Describe how a character in the book is a risk-taker.
  • Were the characters brave enough to stand up for their beliefs? Why do you think they may have found this difficult?
  • Is there a connection between [character’s] risk-taking and their creativity? Explain.
  • How would you have handled this situation?
  • How do you know [character] was taking a risk?
  • Was [character’s] risk-taking positive or negative? Explain.
  • As a class, did you have different views or perspectives on [character] risk-taking? Why do you think this is the case?
  • Will the [character] find this situation easier next time? Why?

BOOKS ABOUT RISK TAKING AND COURAGE: These picture books about risk-taking and courage give an opportunity to show children they are not the only ones who find it hard to step into the unknown and try something new. Your children will seek risk in different ways and at different levels. A classroom is a safe place for them to experiment by taking safe risks with no judgement. These picture books about risk-taking and confidence follow characters approaching new and unfamiliar situations, seeking new ideas, making good decisions, communicating their opinions and standing up for their beliefs. 

Activities such as climbing, sliding, balancing, jumping from heights and hanging upside down can be considered as risky (Tovey, 2010, pg. 79). It is important that both staff and parents are aware of the importance of risky play and that safety policies and regulations do not get in the way of this vital form of play. When children experience the uncertainty of challenging or risky play, they can develop emotional reactions, physical capabilities and coping skills that expand their capacity to manage adversity. These skills are important for resilience and good mental health in childhood and into adolescence.” Loose parts are found or natural objects that have no specific instructions for play and are highly valued for their imaginative and creative affordances for play. For children who are new to loose parts  and play outdoors, it can help to introduce them in small quantities. I have found that for children who have little experience with loose parts play, especially outdoors, introducing the concept through story is an efficient strategy.

  • Mattland by Hazel Hutchins and Gail Herbert. A stirring story about the infectious pleasures of play. Matt is miserable. The subdivision where he now lives is surrounded by nothing but muddy fields of rocks and sticks. But when Matt ventures out, his imagination kicks in. He draws a muddy, winding line and names it Snake River. A pile of rocks becomes the Dog Tooth Mountains. Just like that, Mattland is born. Soon a girl shows up with a handful of helpful odds and ends. Piece by piece, she and Matt expand their new world with popsicle-stick bridges and scrap-paper boats. And when a rainstorm finally threatens to wash everything away, all the neighbourhood kids appear and help stave off the flood. Evocative of childhood friendships and with sublime illustrations that brighten in colour as the story progresses, Mattland is an inspiring ode to cooperative play.
  • Weslandia by Paul Fleischman. This fantastical picture book, like its hero, is bursting at the seams with creativity. . . . a vigorous shot in the arm to nonconformists everywhere. Enter the witty, intriguing world of Weslandia! Now that school is over, Wesley needs a summer project. He’s learned that each civilization needs a staple food crop, so he decides to sow a garden and start his own — civilization, that is. He turns over a plot of earth, and plants begin to grow. They soon tower above him and bear a curious-looking fruit. As Wesley experiments, he finds that the plant will provide food, clothing, shelter, and even recreation. It isn’t long before his neighbours and classmates develop more than an idle curiosity about Wesley — and exactly how he is spending his summer vacation.

  • The Most Magnificent Thing by Ashley Spires. Award-winning author and illustrator Ashley Spires has created a charming picture book about an unnamed girl and her very best friend, who happens to be a dog. The girl has a wonderful idea. “She is going to make the most MAGNIFICENT thing! She knows just how it will look. She knows just how it will work. All she has to do is make it, and she makes things all the time. Easy-peasy!” But making her magnificent thing is anything but easy, and the girl tries and fails, repeatedly. Eventually, the girl gets really, really mad. She is so mad, in fact, that she quits. But after her dog convinces her to take a walk, she comes back to her project with renewed enthusiasm and manages to get it just right. For the early grades’ exploration of character education, this funny book offers a perfect example of the rewards of perseverance and creativity. The girl’s frustration and anger are vividly depicted in the detailed art, and the story offers good options for dealing honestly with these feelings, while at the same time reassuring children that it’s okay to make mistakes. The clever use of verbs in groups of threes is both fun and functional, offering opportunities for wonderful vocabulary enrichment. The girl doesn’t just “make” her magnificent thing — she “tinkers and hammers and measures,” she “smoothes and wrenches and fiddles,” she “twists and tweaks and fastens.” These precise action words are likely to fire up the imaginations of youngsters eager to create their own inventions and are a great tie-in to learning about Science, Technology, Engineering and Math.
  • Not a Stick by Antoinette Portis. This book captures the thrill of when pretend feels so real that it becomes real. With a stick in hand, the options are endless—whether it’s conducting an orchestra, painting a masterpiece, or slaying a dragon—give a child a stick and let imagination take over and the magic begin.
  • That Neighbor Kid by Daniel Miyares. This spare wordless picture book is about making a new friend. There’s a new boy in the neighborhood, and he’s up to something very curious. His next door neighbor, a girl his age with two long braids, peeps around corners and watches as he scavenges wood from the fence between their houses, drags around a hammer and a bucket of nails, and reads a book about living in trees. When she finally works up the courage to say “hi,” she finds herself invited to help build the private getaway every child has dreamed of: a tree house. She also finds herself with a new best friend.
  • The Little Red Fort by Brenda Maier. A spunky, feminist adaptation of the timeless favourite, The Little Red Hen, sure to appeal to fans of Rosie Revere, Engineer. Young makers of all genders will be inspired. Ruby’s mind is always full of ideas.One day, she finds some old boards and decides to build something. She invites her brothers to help, but they just laugh and tell her she doesn’t know how to build.”Then I’ll learn,” she says.And she does!When she creates a dazzling fort that they all want to play in, it is Ruby who has the last laugh.With sprightly text and winsome pictures, this modern spin on the timeless favourite The Little Red Hen celebrates the pluck and ingenuity of young creators everywhere! 

  • Alec’s Primer by Mildred Pitts Walter. Alec Turner, born into slavery in Virginia, was forbidden to learn to read. The granddaughter of his owner taught him so and he eventually became a free man. He joined the Union army during the Civil War before settling in Vermont. Every night he told his family of his story and their heritage. Based on actual events. Alec’s Primer is based on the true story of Alec Turner (1845-1923), who learned to read and, eventually, just as Zephie predicted, became a free man. Travelling to Vermont where he established his home and became a landowner, Alec kept his cherished primer with him throughout his life. Years later, Alec’s daughter Daisy told his dramatic tale of defiance and endurance to the Vermont Folklife Center. Mildred Pitts Walter and Larry Johnson have transformed Alec’s powerful story into an engrossing picture book that affords young readers an authentic lens through which to view history. Read to discuss risk-takers, being knowledgeable and slavery.
  • Althea Gibson: The Story of Tennis’ Fleet-of-Foot Girl by Megan Reid. Althea Gibson grew up in Harlem and tennis was her passion. Every time she lost a match, she worked harder. Through her determination and resilience, Althea overcame racist and sexist attitudes to become the first black winner of Wimbledon, US and French Open tennis championships. Read to promote discussions on racism, overcoming adversity, commitment, and perseverance.
  • The Barnabas Project by Terry Fan. Strange animals kept in glass bell jars in a mysterious laboratory are failed attempts to make the perfect pets. Destined to be recycled, Barnabas, half mouse, half elephant, takes action to reach his goal of freedom. Through teamwork with his fellow captives, he does what it takes to reach the outside world. Use to discuss self-acceptance, cooperation, courage, following your dreams, friendship and embracing imperfections.
  • The Bird In Me Flies by Sara Lundberg. Berta Hansson grew up on a Swedish farm and dreams of being an artist. With her frail mother ill in bed with tuberculosis, she had to take on extra responsibilities. Her childhood builds a determination to follow her dreams to be an artist… “Because I have a bird inside me, that must fly where it will…” This translated biography prompts discussions on believing in yourself, following your dreams, courage, and determination. This book is for more advanced readers.

  • Black Dog by Levi Pinfold. An enormous black dog and a very tiny little girl star in this offbeat tale about confronting one’s fears. When a huge black dog appears outside the Hope family home, each member of the household sees it and hides. Only Small, the youngest Hope, has the courage to face the black dog, who might not be as frightening as everyone else thinks.
  • The Dark by Lemony Snicket. The dark frightens Lazlo. When his night light goes out the dark beckons him to come to the basement. Lazlo tentatively goes into the basement where he thinks dark lives, and the dark leads Lazlo to a drawer full of light bulbs.Promotes confidence, risk-taking, perseverance and overcoming fears.
  • The Dreadful Fluff by Aaron Blabey. Serenity Strainer fights her fears to save her family from the dreadful (belly button) fluff, along with courage and a vacuum cleaner. Read to discuss confidence, courage, and overcoming fears. 
  • The Earth Shook: A Persian Tale by Donna Jo Napoli. In Iran, Parisa is woken by a powerful earthquake. She finds everything around her has been destroyed. Frightened, Parisa knocks on some doors, only to be faced with animals who have previously been hurt by humans. Alone, she dances, laughs, cooks food and waters the plants. One by one the distrustful animals gradually come to join her. Read to discuss risk-taking, sharing, resilience, loneliness and courage.
  • Emmanuel’s Dream: The True Story of Emmanuel Ofosu Yeboah by Laurie Ann Thompson.People dismissed Emmanuel because of his deformed leg, but his mother’s belief gave him the courage and determination to be himself. As he got older he became a cyclist, eventually cycling 400 miles across Ghana to promote the message that disability is not inability.
  • Drummer Girl by Hiba Masood. Najma dreams of being a musaharati, the drummer who wakes families in her Turkish village for the pre-dawn meal during Ramadan. No girl has ever taken on this role and Najma has to show determination and self-belief to follow her dreams.Promotes courage, overcoming fears, and risk-taking.
  • Fearless by Colin Thompson.A family names their new bulldog Fearless because of how he looks, except is scared of everything! He finally lives up to his name when, by accident, he startles a burglar in the kitchen.Promotes overcoming our fears, risk-taking and self-esteem. 

  • Giraffes Can’t Dance by Giles Andreae. Giraffes Can’t Dance is a touching tale of Gerald the giraffe, who wants nothing more than to dance. With crooked knees and thin legs, it’s harder for a giraffe than you would think. Gerald is finally able to dance to his own tune when he gets some encouraging words from an unlikely friend. With light-footed rhymes and high-stepping illustrations, this tale is gentle inspiration for every child with dreams of greatness.
  • Grandma Z by Daniel Gray-Barnett. As Albert wishes his birthday wasn’t so ordinary there was a knock at the door. It was his Grandma Z! A very unordinary adventure even began, including climbing to the top of Enchanted Rock, playing in the Midnight Forest and building a twenty-four room palace. Albert’s unordinary day finished with a party and huge birthday cake.
  • Naked Mole Rat Gets Dressed by Mo Willems. Wilbur is different from the other Naked Mole Rats in his Colony, because he wears clothes (and he likes it!). But what will happen when Grandpah, the oldest, and most naked Naked Mole Rat ever discovers Wilbur’s secret? Mo Willems exposes the naked truth about being yourself and wearing it well. Promotes acceptance, individuality, open-mindedness, and self-awareness. 
  • Hiccup The Viking Who Was Seasick by Cressida Cowell. Hiccup, a little Viking, doesn’t fit because he is polite and scared of everything, including going to sea for the first time. But it is this little Viking that saves the day when the big, strong Vikings cannot.

  • Jabari Jumps by Gaia Cornwall. Jabari is determined to jump off the diving board but his confidence wanes as he nears the ladder. His patient father reassures Jabari that it is okay to be scared. With new determination, he climbs the ladder and jumps.
  • Koala Lou by Mem Fox. Koala Lou worries when her busy mother forgets to tell her how much she loves her. She sets out to win the Bush Olympics to win back her mother’s love. She doesn’t win but realises she had never lost her mother’s love.
  • The Koala Who Could by Rachel Bright. Kevin the Koala hates change as the consequences scare him. It is only when a woodpecker disturbs his steady way of life that Kevin has no choice but to make a big change, beginning an exciting new chapter in his life. A book about self-management, courage and perseverance.
  • Let’s Paint! by Gabriel Alborozo. Let’s Paint! encourages children’s creativity and expression and to not worry about mistakes. The book reinforces themes of courage, creativity, imagination and  risk-taking.
  • The Lion Inside by Rachel Bright. A timid mouse attempts to make himself heard after being ignored by other animals. The mouse realises that first impressions are not always what they seem as he develops a new friendship.Promotes risk-taking, courage, independence and self-awareness.
  • Little Mouse and the Red Wall by Britta Teckentrup. Little Mouse, Scaredy Cat, Old Bear, Laughing Fox, and Lion Who Had Lost His Roar live in a grey village surrounded by a large red wall. The thought of what is beyond the wall fills cat, bear and lion with fear. Mouse filled with curiosity and courage, steps beyond the wall, finding a world of beauty and freedom.
  • Malala: Activist for Girls’ Education by Raphaele Frier. When fifteen-year-old Malala Yousafzai stood up to the Taliban for her right, and that of all girls, to an education, they tried to kill her. Her injuries didn’t stop her activism, and she was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize for her inspiring work.
  • The Other Side by Jacqueline Woodson. Jacqueline Woodson addresses race relations with two young girls, one black and one white. A fence segregates their homes, but they slowly get to know each other by sitting on this barrier. Promotes tolerance, communication, friendship and open-mindedness.
  • Parachute by Danny Parker. Toby has a great fear of heights and he always carries a bright orange parachute. When his cat gets stuck in a tree Toby follows and uses the parachute to rescue it. The problem is that Toby is now stuck in the tree. Can he face his fears and get down? Read to discuss self-management, facing our fears, courage and self-esteem.
  • The Real Boat by Marina Aromshtam. A paper boat floats down a stream and into a river before being pulled into the ocean by a tugboat. A storm causes the paper boat to sink to the bottom of the ocean. A scuba diver scoops up the boat and passes it onto a ship captain who is full of admiration for this brave, little boat.
  • The Ricker Racker Club by Patrick Guest. Poppy proves herself worthy of the boys only Ricker Racker Club. The rules state you have to be kind and brave. When she shows them she is equal in all ways they make her an equal member. This book reinforces the themes of courage, caring, equality and gender roles.
  • Ron’s Big Mission by Rose Blue and Corinne J. Naden.Ron loved visiting his local library to read books about the world of aviation. But the policy of segregation in South Carolina meant he couldn’t take home books. This brave young boy challenged this injustice through determination and peaceful resistance. His success meant that anyone, regardless of background or ethnicity, could have a library card. Based on a true event in the life of Ron McNair, a scientist and astronaut. He tragically died, along with six others, in the 1986 Challenger explosion.
  • The Thing Lou Couldn’t Do by Ashley Spires.Lou procrastinates and makes excuses rather than face her fears. With the support of her friends, she develops a growth mindset to overcome the challenges she faces.
  • The Tunnel by Anthony Browne. Two siblings discover a tunnel. The brother rushes in, dismissing his sister’s fears. When he doesn’t return she finds the courage to follow him. Promotes themes of facing our fears, cooperation, curiosity, responsibility, and being a risk-taker.
  • Tyrannosaurus Rex vs. Edna the Very First Chicken by Douglas Rees. Tyrannosaurus Rex stomps and roars to scare the other dinosaurs right out of the forest. Only Edna, the very first chicken, stands up to this bully. But she will be a match for Tyrannosaurus Rex’s gnashing teeth and sharp claws?
  • The Visitor by Antje Damm. One day a blue paper aeroplane flies through Elsie’s window. This event leads to a knock at the door which she opens to a boy who asks for his plane. An unexpected friendship develops and brings colour and light to Elsie’s lonely life. Read to discuss overcoming rears, cause & effect, relationship skills and risk-taking.

  • The Wall by Jessie James. Tom loves to explore until he hears adults talking about the monsters who live out in the world. He becomes scared and the adults build a wall to keep out the monsters. Life soon becomes dreary. When a colourful message flies over the wall, Tom starts exploring again and persuades the adults there is nothing to be afraid of. Use this book to discuss fears, risk-taking, curiosity, inclusion, and asking questions.
  • What If…? by Anthony Browne. Joe is nervous about attending a birthday party and he imagines all sorts of “what ifs” scenarios. As he arrives he realizes he had nothing to worry about. This book reinforces the themes of overcoming our fears, confidence and being a risk-taker. 

FAIRY TALE STORYBOOKS: Everyone has a favorite fairy tale. Some children may say Frozen, Lion King or some other “Disney” fairy tale, but you know there’s much more to fairy tales than these timeless stories. Once you open the door to discussing fairy tales there are so many amazing directions you can take it.

For example, “Where did fairy tales come from?” The oldest known documented fairy tales come from Egypt and date around 1300 BC. You might also talk about different fairy tales from other cultures. You could even have a writing unit where children create their own fairy tales and read them in class.

Where Do You Start When Teaching Fairy Tales? Because there are so many options when it comes to teaching fairy tales, a little direction might help. Take advantage of the numerous lesson plans devoted to fairy tales and available at Teacher Planet. You can also find worksheets, clip art and teaching resources. Help your students move beyond the fairy tales they see on television and in the movies to explore the amazing world of fairy tales.

  • Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs adapted by Anna Bowles. Snow White’s stepmother is so jealous of her beauty that she wants her gone for good! But she doesn’t count on seven little dwarfs who spoil her plans.
  • Beauty and the Beast by Jan Brett. Originally published in 1989, this luminous reissue of an all-time favourite fairy tale will attract an even wider audience with its romantic new jacket and a shortened text. Exquisite illustrations of Beauty and her mysterious suitor, the Beast, are set in a magical castle where animals dressed in period costumes serve them. Woven into glorious tapestries throughout are hidden clues hinting at the Beast’s secrets, setting Brett’s version apart from others.
  • Hansel and Gretel by Rachel Isadora. Caldecott Honor winner Rachel Isadora gives readers a stunning new interpretation of this classic Brothers Grimm fairy tale, setting the infamous witch’s cottage deep in a lush African forest. Hansel and Gretel’s plight feels all the more threatening as they’re plunged into the thick, dark jungle of Isadora’s rich collages.
  • Cinderella by Paul Galdone. “Just as inviting today as when they first appeared decades ago.” This version of the classic fairy tale stands above the rest. His gentle retelling is resplendent with lush artwork and storytelling that weaves the magical tale of a princess both beautiful and kind. This lovely story is now a Folk Tale Classic, with gold foil stamping on the cover and saturated, full-colour illustrations throughout. A beautiful and value-priced edition of a classic, this book deserves a place in every child’s library!
  • Little Red Riding Hood by Paul Galdone. “Once upon a time there was a sweet little maiden who was loved by all who knew her . . .” So begins this classic tale about Little Red Riding Hood and her encounter with the wolf one day when she is on her way to visit her sick grandmother. Paul Galdone has drawn on the Brothers Grimm version of Little Red Riding Hood, and lends beautiful vibrant illustrations to his exciting retelling of this classic fairy tale. Small children and Paul Galdone’s older fans will cheer as the old tale comes enchantingly alive in lovely, nostalgic, full-colour pictures.
  • The Princess and the Pea by Hans Christian Anderson. This book is a timeless story beloved for its bold princess and a little pea that ends up causing a big problem. Featuring beautiful illustrations filled with a bright array of colours.
  • Illustrated Hans Christian Andersen’s Fairy Tales by Anna Milbourne. They are Anderson’s stories that our childhood loved. Who among us did not love the story of the tin soldier and imagine himself in the innocence of the child who screamed that the Sultan was naked and whose eyes widened with emotion with the little mermaid on her journey from the sea to the land for the sake of the one she loves?
  • Usborne Illustrated Grimm’s Fairy Tales by Gillian Brocklehurst. An illustrated collection of fifteen tales from the brothers Grimm, retold for younger readers. Stories include Hansel and Gretel, Sleeping Beauty, Rumpelstiltskin, Tom Thumb and The Frog Prince as well as a short biography of the brothers themselves.
  • Illustrated Stories From Aesop by Susanna Davidson. A timeless collection of twenty of Aesop’s best-loved fables–punctuated by the age-old morals that have instructed countless generations. Accompanied by beautiful, full-colour illustrations from award-winning artist Don Daily, this volume highlights such fables as “The Goose Who Laid the Golden Eggs,” “The Mouse and the Frog,” and the one and only “The Tortoise and the Hare.”
  • The Three Little Pigs by Paul Galdone. All three pigs set out to seek their fortune, but two of them come to a sorry end.
  • The Gingerbread Boy by Paul Galdone. “The classic tale of the old couple, with no children of their own, who bake a gingerbread boy to keep them company. Just as the little old woman is about to take him from the oven, he slips away and runs out the door past a cow, a horse, a group of threshers, mowers, etc. All follow in hot pursuit until the gingerbread boy meets up with a wily fox, and at last and at last he went the way of every single gingerbread boy that ever came out of an oven . . . He was all gone!’ A wonderfully frenetic cross-country chase is depicted in Galdone’s broadly humorous colour wash drawings. Of the eight editions of this well-known story now in print, this hilarious version is the most delectable.” “Galdone has already proven many times over that he is perfectly at home with those traditional nursery tales that are still preschoolers’ favourites, and his expressive, unassuming style just right for their very young audience. . . . Children will follow along breathlessly . . . right up to that last snip snap snip when the Gingerbread Boy goes ‘the way of every single gingerbread boy that ever came out of an oven.’”
  • The Three Bears by Paul Galdone. This classic tale featuring an unsuspecting bear family and a naughty, gap-toothed Goldilocks from award-winning author/illustrator Paul Galdone is a must-have for your storybook collection! When three bears leave their house to go for a walk in the woods, leaving their porridge to cool, a young girl named Goldilocks comes calling….and what a mess she makes! Great Big, Middle-Sized, and Little Wee readers alike will love Paul Galdone’s delightful depiction of the original folk tale.
  • Jack and the Beanstalk by Paul Galdone. Young readers are sure to delight in Galdone’s version of this classic story, and the lively illustrations and rhythmic storytelling make it perfect for reading aloud with little ones. With a gorgeous cover in keeping with the rest of the Folk Tale Classics series, the story of Jack and his magic bean has never been more irresistible.A verse version of the tale was first published in England in 1807.
  • The Little Red Hen by Paul Galdone. Beloved by generations, the funny story of reaping what you sow comes to life in this classic board book with Caldecott Honoree Paul Galdone’s dynamic, amusing pictures. When the Little Red Hen asks a cat, dog, and mouse for help planting some wheat, she gets no takers: “‘Not I!’ said the cat. ‘Not I!’ said the dog. ‘Not I!’ said the mouse.” They won’t water, cut, or grind the wheat . . . or help bake a cake with it, either. So in the end, the Little Red Hen eats the cake all by herself as well! Paul Galdone’s delightfully detailed ink and wash illustrations—packed with charming details—add plenty of sly humour to the well-loved story that not only offers a sage message but also shows children what it takes to make a cake from the ground up!
  • The Three Billy Goats Gruff by Paul Galdone. Can the three Billy Goats Gruff cross the troll’s bridge without being eaten? Find out in the perfect introduction to the beloved must-have classic by two-time Caldecott Honor-winner Paul Galdone. The three Billy Goats Gruff are hungry! They want to go over the bridge and up the hillside to a fine meadow full of grass and daisies where they can eat and eat and eat. But under the bridge lives a troll who’s as mean as he is ugly… How will they ever get past him? An energetic, predictable chorus makes for a wonderful read-aloud of this classic tale.
  • Rumplestiltskin by Paul Galdone. Paul Galdone’s masterful storytelling brings new life to this familiar high-stakes tale of a mysterious little man who makes a devastating deal with the miller’s daughter. Sold to a king who expects her to spin straw into gold, she promises Rumpelstiltskin the most valuable thing of all in exchange for his help, and she must outwit him when he comes to claim his due. Children will delight in the illustrations, replete with details and rich colours. This new addition to the Folk Tale Classics series is an outstanding addition to any fairy tale collection.
  • Henny Penny by Paul Galdone. “A favourite nursery tale delightfully illustrated in strong line and colour in Galdone’s familiar and likeable style.” Another popular retelling by Paul Galdone joins the Folk Tale Classics series! Convinced the sky is falling, Henny Penny and a band of gullible friends march off to tell the king, only to meet their end at the hands of a wily fox. With its tongue-twisting rhymes, rich illustrations, surprising ending, and beautiful gold foil cover accents, this funny read-aloud will make a great addition to any child’s library of classics.
  • Three Little Kittens by Paul Galdone. The favourite Mother Goose rhyme about the three careless kittens who lost their mittens is given added appeal with Galdone’s bold and colourful illustrations. The three little kittens may be a bit irresponsible, but they always manage to correct their mistakes in this favourite classic tale. The kittens’ dramatic displays of regret, as well as their sincere efforts to get into their mother’s good graces—and taste her scrumptious-looking pie!—will delight readers young and old.
  • The Elves and the Shoemaker by Paul Galdone. In this faithful retelling of the classic Grimm Brothers tale, the illustrations capture the kindness of the shoemaker and the magic of the two elves who help him.
  • Stone Soup by Ann McGovern. A clever young man tricks an old woman into believing that soup can be made from a stone. As the pot of water boils with the stone in it, he urges her to add more and more ingredients until the soup is a feast “fit for a king.” In print for 30 years. Ann McGovern has been writing children’s books for over 35 years. She has published over 45 titles including STONE SOUP, several books in the IF YOU LIVED…. series, and SCRAM, KID! (Viking, 1974), which won the Horn Book Award. 
  • Rapunzel by Sarah Gibb. Rapunzel by Sarah Gibb. A beautifully illustrated, magical retelling of one of the most beloved children’s fairy tales. Beautiful Rapunzel is locked away in a tall, tall tower, visited only by the little creatures of the forest and the witch who has imprisoned her. Once upon a time, there was a girl called Rapunzel, a prisoner in the tallest tower who had nothing to do but grow and grow and grow her hair. All she knows are the four walls around her, the witch who has imprisoned her, and the creatures of the forest who visit her and show her kindness. Add to the story one very determined prince and a hair-raising escape…but how will it all end? Based on the original story by the Brothers Grimm, this exquisite retelling of the classic fairy tale will delight a new generation of readers. Until one day a handsome prince passing by on his horse is transfixed by the magical sound of Rapunzel singing to her animal friends, and knows he must reach her.
  • The Emperor’s New Clothes by Hans Christian Anderson. Illustrated by the beloved creator of Mike Mulligan and His Steam Shovel, The Little House, and Katy and the Big Snow, here is a delightful version of the tale that boys and girls have loved for centuries. The Emperor himself, his court, and his clothes—or lack of them—are ridiculous as only the master storyteller Hans Christian Andersen can make them. Fifty-five years ago, Virginia Lee Burton added to this tale of fun her own irrepressible humor in pictures and design. This brilliant new edition features Burton’s original illustrations photographed anew, freshly exhibiting her lively concoction of remarkable spirit and beauty.
  • The Bremen Town Musicians by Brian Wildsmith. A retelling of the Grimm Brothers beloved tale about an old donkey who leaves the farm to travel to Bremen where he hopes to join a band. On the way, he meets a dog, a cat, and a rooster. With a bray, a bark, a meow, and a cock-a-doodle-doo, they become fast friends and decide to travel together to Bremen but getting there leads to great unexpected results.
  • Puss in Boots by Leslie Sims. A funny, friendly picture book about a magical talking cat. All Tom has in the world is his pet cat, but this cat can talk – and he has a stylish taste in boots. Thanks to Cat, Tom is soon meeting the king and defeating an ogre in Charles Perrault’s fantastical fairy tale, specially retold for younger children. With free online audio.
  • Sleeping Beauty by Sarah Gibb. A beautifully illustrated, magical retelling of one of the most beloved fairy tales.
  • Ugly Duckling by Michael Jaroszko. This little duckling wasn’t like the others. This enduring tale of an insecure duckling and his transformation into a beautiful swan is shown in a new light through thought-provoking illustrations.
  • The Elves and the Shoemaker by Leslie Sims. “One good turn deserves another” is a moral lesson for the ages. But it doesn’t have to be boring! This enchanting story of a down-on-their-luck cobblers, who stumble upon a hidden world of magical, mischievous elves. With beautiful illustrations and free online audio.
  • Hare and the Tortoise by Simon Nuurali. What happens when a tortoise challenges a hare to a race? Read this popular West African tale to find out. There’s more than one way to teach a boastful hare a lesson! With engaging text and easy-to-follow panels, Discover Graphics: Global Folktales are perfect for graphic novel fans new and old.

JULY 1 BOOKS: Canada Day is celebrated on July 1. It is a national holiday marking the anniversary of Confederation in 1867 when the British North America Act came into effect.

  • The Kids Book of Canada by Barbara Greenwood. Ten years after its debut, this title in the acclaimed Kids Book of series is more than ever an indispensable tool for researching school projects or a conversation piece for sharing Canadian facts with friends and family. Bursting with rich and detailed illustrations, this book is as far-ranging, fascinating and full of surprises as the country it describes.
  • Carson Crosses Canada by Linda Bailey. Feisty Annie Magruder and her dog, Carson, live in British Columbia, Canada, and they’re setting out to visit her sister, Elsie, in Newfoundland. In their little rattlebang car, packed with Carson’s favorite toy, Squeaky Chicken, and plenty of baloney sandwiches, Annie and Carson hit the road! They travel province by province, taking in each unique landscape and experiencing something special to that particular part of this vast, grand country. For example, they marvel at the beauty of the big, open sky — and grasshoppers! — in Saskatchewan and discover the gorgeous red earth and delicious lobster rolls in PEI, before finally being greeted by Elsie — and a surprise for Carson!
  • Weird But True Canada: 300 Outrageous Facts About the True North by Chelsea Lin. Calling all Canadians and Canada-philes: Get ready to be amazed and delighted by wacky facts, stats, tidbits, and trivia, eh? Did you know that the Royal Mint once created a coin weighing more than 90 kg and valued at over $1 million dollars? Or that Canada was the first country to build a UFO landing pad? Maybe you’d be amazed to discover that Montreal is the second largest French-speaking city in the world? It’s all weird–and it’s all true…Canada style! In this latest and greatest edition of Weird But True, you’ll read all about the wacky wilds, bizarre bites, and strange scenes of Canada!
  • ABC of Canada by Kim Bellefontaine. From Arctic to Zamboni, kids can follow the alphabet on a colourful tour across Canada. On their journey, they’ll visit Canadian landmarks, including Jasper National Park and Peggy’s Cove. They’ll also meet friendly characters enjoying Canadian pastimes, such as riding in the Calgary Stampede, playing hockey and watching the Northern Lights. Vivid illustrations and simple language guarantee that even the youngest traveller will enjoy this trip!
  • Goodnight, Canada by Andrea Beck. Award-winning Canadian author and illustrator Andrea Beck has created a unique gift for parents as they wind their little ones down for bedtime. Goodnight, Canada inspires a sense of community as a child who lives in Newfoundland lies in bed wondering about other children across the country. He quietly bids a goodnight to them all, and to Canada itself, province by province, territory by territory. From the quiet wheat fields of Saskatchewan to a fisherman’s wharf in Nova Scotia, the colourful scenes celebrate the diversity of Canada’s people and key features of each province. So many details brighten each page, bringing Canada to life and creating a world children will want to return to again and again!

  • I Am Canada: A Celebration by Heather Patterson. What is being a Canadian kid all about? Simple text describes the ample space available to our children in this country, and the freedom they have to grow and dream and share. With artwork from 13 of Canada’s finest illustrators, each page is a celebration and a reminder of the infinite variety of our home and native land. Heather Patterson’s free verse poem I Am Canada, originally published in 1996, speaks to a new generation in this perfect toddler gift. Bright illustrations by some of Canada’s best children’s book creators provide a view of different art styles, highlighting Canada’s diversity in a very special way.
  • Canada 123 by Kim Bellefontaine. Bold landscapes and an adorable cast of characters count their way across a colourful tour of Canada from coast to coast. This vibrant board book is sure to have youngsters making trips from one to ten and back again.

Download Poster

FAIRY TALE SONGS:

RISKY PLAY & PLAY: Children are always going to come across times when they have to take risks, whether or not they want to. We can prepare them for these moments. The benefits of being a risk-taker include:

  • Overcoming fears and failure
  •  Learning new skills 
  • Dealing with new or unexpected experiences
  • Creative thinking
  • Motivation to take things to a new level
  • Building self-confidence and a sense of accomplishment
  • Learning from mistakes and making appropriate changes
  • Developing resilience, perseverance and a growth mindset.

FAIRY TALE/NURSERY STORY SONGS:

2. Create Together: Puzzles, Crafts, Drawing and Constructing 🧩 

CANADA DAY ACTIVITIES: July 1, 2024. This day is celebrated with parades, displays of the flag, the singing of the national anthem, “O Canada”, and fireworks. Every year, Canada Day is celebrated on July 1st. The first official declaration of this national holiday took place in 1879. Canada Day is a national holiday that marks the anniversary of Confederation in 1867, when the British North America Act came into effect. Canada Day was originally known as Dominion Day, but was renamed in 1982.

CANADA DAY ACTIVITIES: 

Canada Facts – P. 2

FAIRY TALE ACTIVITIES:

SHAPES ACTIVITIES: Using the printable shape matching game cards – First of all, print out the PDF sheets and cut out the objects (color or black and white are both fine). Then shuffle the cards and give a set to a small group or individual children. Note that the shape cards are bigger than the object cards. Once your students have a set you can –

  • Ask them to arrange the cards correctly.
  • See if your students can name all of the objects verbally or how many of them they can spell.
  • Say where each object can be found or what they are made of.
  • Make a treasure hunt in your classroom by hiding the shapes of objects around the room and see who can find the most.
  • See if children can think of other objects for each of the shapes.
  • Shape matching game objects 1
  • The first sheet below has these shapes and objects –
  • Rhombus/Diamond –  kite, jewel, seal, spinning top, and earrings.
  • Pentagon – birdhouse, house, tent, cupcake, and circus (tent).
  • Oval – egg, candy, pineapple, kiwi fruit, and turtle.
  • Trapezoid – pot plant, handbag, lamp, skirt, and padlock.

Ideas for using the free shapes flashcards printables. There are a ton of ways to use these PDF flashcards of shapes. Here are some teaching ideas that you may not have thought of or tried before.

1 – Matching. The cards are designed so that the words can easily be cut out as separate pieces. This way you can get students to match the shapes with their names.

2- Colour sentences. The shapes of flashcards all have different colours, this way you can also involve colours in your lessons. One way is to get students to name the colour of the shape to make basic sentences. For example, if you ask “What is it?”, students should reply with answers such as “It is a green heart” and so on.

3 – This and that. By having two cards, one close to the student and another a little away you can introduce the grammatical principles of this and that very easily. Point to the close card and ask “What is this” and the distant card and ask “What is that?” You can go even further by using several cards and introducing these and those!

4 – Counting. You can ask students how many sides each shape has. You can also use multiple cards or print extra sets to be used for counting.

5 – Find a shape. This works well with the most simple shapes. Ask your class to find things in the room that are a certain shape. They can also just think of something and respond. For example, “A door is a rectangle” or “The moon is a circle”. Older or more advanced classes can write a list of objects for each shape (this can also be made into a race or game).

6 – Make shapes. This is a great hands-on activity for kids. By using drinking straws or matchsticks, get them to create the shapes that they are learning.

CHARADES FOR KIDS: This is a wonderful game for children and for learners. It involves physically acting out words for others to guess. These easy charades for kids printables are guaranteed to bring a lot of fun and laughter to any classroom or playground.

WRITING:

MATH:

SCIENCE:

RISK-TAKING ACTIVITIES: This is a great time to look for objects and activities that encourage movement. This could be climbing a slide at the local playground or just walking or using a tricycle, scooter or push-along toy to get around. Playing together and praising your child as they learn to move also encourages your child to keep going. Children are developing in countless ways—physically, socially, emotionally and cognitively. Throughout this period, active play is critical.

Research has established that active play plays an essential role in children’s physical and psychosocial health. It has been shown to promote cognitive development, and early math skills and school readiness have been linked to the types of fine motor and perceptual skills that are typically developed through active play.

Active play has been defined as physical activity in a playful context. It usually refers to “free-flow play” that follows each child’s preferences and intrinsic motivations, as opposed to more structured physical activity that is directed by adults or formal rules. By its very nature, active play encourages improvisation and creative forms of playful activity.

  • Throwing Stones in Water Skill: Throw 30 minutes Suggested age: 4 – 12 years. This activity develops coordination of arms and torso, fine motor control, and the ability to “read” distances. These skills transfer to sports and activities that involve throwing an object accurately over a perceived distance (e.g., balls, frisbees, ribbons, sticks, batons).
Throwing Stones in Water
  • Throw and Catch – Wheeling Skill: Catch, Throw, Wheeling 5 minutes Suggested age: 5 – 12 years. This activity develops throwing and catching skills together with core strength
Throw and Catch – Wheeling
  • Target Throwing Skill: Throw 30 minutes Suggested age: 4 – 10 years. This activity develops coordination of arms and torso, fine motor control, and the ability to “read” distances. These skills transfer to sports and activities that involve throwing an object accurately over a perceived distance (e.g., balls, frisbees, javelins, darts, ribbons, sticks, batons).
Target Throwing
  • Tag Skill: Agility 10 minutes Suggested age: 5 – 12 years. This activity develops coordination of legs, arms and torso, plus dynamic balance and speed. These skills transfer to sports and activities that involve dynamic balance and speed (e.g., soccer, basketball, hockey, volleyball, racquet sports, martial arts, dance).
Tag
  • Standing Broad Jump Skill: Jump10 minutes Suggested age: 4 – 10 years. This activity develops dynamic balance, coordination, and strength required for any and all sports and activities that involve jumping (e.g., basketball, baseball, soccer, volleyball, track and field, gymnastics, diving)
Standing Broad Jump
  • Soccer Dribbling – Skill: Kick 15 minutes Suggested age: 5 – 12 years.This activity develops leg coordination, strength and fine motor control in the lower body. It also develops balance and rhythmical movement. These skills transfer to sports and activities that involve dynamic balance and rhythmical movement (e.g., soccer, basketball, volleyball, racquet sports, martial arts, dance).
Soccer Dribbling
  • Animal Friends – Skill: Balance15 minutes Suggested age: 1 – 6 years. This activity develops coordination and balance as kids try to imitate the movements of different animals.This activity develops coordination and balance as kids try to imitate the movements of different animals.
    • Either indoors or outdoors, pretend to be different animals with your child.
    • Flap your arms like bird wings and “fly” around obstacles.
    • Hop on all fours like a frog, and say “Ribbit-ribbit-ribbit”.
    • Hop on two legs with feet together, and pretend to be kangaroos.
    • Bend your knees, walk with your legs far apart, and swing your arms like chimpanzees.
    • Walk on feet and hands and pretend to be a reptile.
    • Walk on hands and knees and pretend to be kittens saying “meow”.
    • Slide on the floor or ground and pretend to be snakes saying “hiss”.
    • Invent other animal ideas and noises.
    • Ask your child to suggest an animal that you can both imitate.

Animal Friends

  • Run Away from the Monster – Skill: Agility 15 minutes Suggested age: 2 – 5 years. This activity develops agility along with running and dodging as kids try to escape the monster.

Run Away from the Monster

  • Mirror Mirror – Skill: Agility, Balance, Hop, Jump, Run, Skip10 minutes Suggested age: 2 – 6 years. This activity develops coordination and balance as kids try to imitate the movements of their parents or play partners.

Mirror Mirror

  • Kangaroo Hopping – Skill: Hop10 minutes Suggested age: 3 – 10 years. This activity develops dynamic balance, coordination, and rhythm required for activities at older ages such as running, skipping, hopping, and dancing.
Kangaroo Hopping
  • Crab Walk – Skill: Balance 15 minutes Suggested age: 5 – 12 years.This activity develops coordination, balance, and strength as kids try to imitate the movements of a crab.

Crab Walk

3. Explore, Engage & Interact Together 🌍

RISKY PLAY ACTIVITIES:

Here are ideas for keeping physical activity fun:

  • Use balls of different textures and sizes to practise catching, hitting, bouncing and kicking. Some rolled-up socks can be good for this activity too.
  • Make up games that involve different types of movement. For example, get your child to chase bubbles, walk, run or skip along chalk lines, gather shells, or jump over puddles or cracks in the ground.
  • Play different kinds of music, or make sounds with your voice or instruments. This can encourage dancing and a sense of rhythm.
  • Invent silly walks and runs with your child. You could play guess the animal games, where you run like a monkey, jump like a bunny, flap like a bird and so on.
  • When your child is ready, let them try learning to ride a bike, scooter or tricycle – under adult supervision. Children often enjoy playing with push toys like trucks, doll prams and toy lawn mowers.
  • Leave the car or stroller at home when you can and walk to local places like the library, park or shops.

RISKY PLAY ACTIVITIES:

  • Wheelbarrow Walking – Skill: Balance10 minutes Suggested age: 4 – 8 years. This activity helps kids develop the fundamental movement skills that provide an early foundation for physical literacy. You can search these activities according to child age and movement skill using the sorting tool above. This activity develops coordination, balance, and strength as kids imitate the movement of a wheelbarrow.

Wheelbarrow Walking

  • Underhand Catch Skill: Catch 15 minutes Suggested age: 3 – 8 years. This activity develops hand-eye coordination, fine motor control, and the ability to track moving objects in the air. These skills transfer to sports and activities that involve flying objects (e.g., balls, shuttlecocks, frisbees, ribbons, sticks, batons).
Underhand Catch
  • Twist and Shout Skill: Balance 10 minutes Suggested age: 4 – 12 years. This activity develops coordination and balance as kids shift their weight from one foot to the other while twisting their body through a dynamic range of motion.
Twist and Shout
  • Tightrope Skill: Balance 15 minutes Suggested age: 3 – 8 years. This activity develops coordination and balance as kids try to walk a straight line on a rope lying on the ground.
Tightrope
  • Throwing Stones in Water – Skill: Throw 30 minutes Suggested age: 4 – 12 years.This activity develops coordination of arms and torso, fine motor control, and the ability to “read” distances. These skills transfer to sports and activities that involve throwing an object accurately over a perceived distance (e.g., balls, frisbees, ribbons, sticks, batons).
Throwing Stones in Water

FAIRY TALE ACTIVITIES:

  • Dress up the Wolf. Instructions: Instructions:
    • Cut a pillow from patterned paper and glue to the backing paper.
    • Cut out Mr. Wolf and glue him to the paper with his head on the pillow.
    • Cut out a cap for Mr. Wolf from the patterned paper and glue it on.
    • Finish with a paper rectangle for “Grandma’s” blanket.

The following is a free printable matching game that goes along with Goldilocks and The Three Bears preschool pack includes: Print 2 pages of each card page. Glue or tape to construction paper. Cut them out. Laminate or use clear contact paper for protection. Different ideas for Play: These can be used as a memory game but there are other ways the children can use them as well or Sight word practice.

  • Storybook Activity Pack includes: Number matching, Pattern creation, Number puzzles, Puzzles, Simple addition, Counting, Colors, Pre-writing practice, Writing, and Letter recognition, and Matching game.
  • Download these:
    • printable Shapes.
    • Woodland Faeries – The largest section of this book is the number of activity pages. On these 10 pages the child will be able to count the number of birds. Trace or use playdough to outline the number, count out manipulative objects such as pom poms or counting blocks, and practice writing the number word. I like to put these in corner locking folders and then let them use a dry erase marker or crayon on the activity page.
    • Tooth Fairy – From a teeth brushing schedule to good/bad foods sorting, this printable pack has so many different activities. There are several different no prep worksheets as well to practise all those basic skills!
    • Princess and the Pea activities.
    • I Spy Fairy Tale.
    • Fairy Tale Word Search.

mrseconomousgrade2class.weebly.co…

4. Healthy Living: Movement & Nutrition 👭

MOVEMENT:

  • Ocean Yoga Poses – Teaching our kids assertiveness is a cornerstone of fostering their self-confidence. But, unfortunately, the topic of assertiveness, often overlooked in our own childhoods, can feel like new territory for many parents.
  • Download:
    • 5 Phrases to empower a child.
    • Brain Breaks .
    • Random Acts of Kindness Cards.
    • Strengthening Core Strength with a Ball – 5 Minutes a Day – That’s the time it takes to get kids up on their feet. Away from their screens. And moving their bodies. It’s a small daily habit that has ripple effects throughout their day, week, month and year. It helps reactivate and refocus the brain when they’ve been sitting for a long time. It reduces stress, anxiety and frustration. And it’s a fun, simple way to teach the value of an active lifestyle!
  • Begin with Self-Calming strategies – download this poster.

NUTRITION: As parents, it is natural to want to buy healthy snacks for kids – especially in summer when the local fruits and vegetables are so tasty. When your children are complaining that their stomachs are rumbling, it can seem like a major task to prepare a healthy snack, but there are a number of easy and nutritious options that your kids may love. Cooking is undoubtedly an important milestone in a child’s development. It’s a way to teach them about health, nutrition and safety; it helps to reinforce math and science skills and it instills a sense of pride and confidence when they accomplish tasks and rise to the responsibility. But I would encourage you to start teaching your kids (of any age) to cook because it’s an amazing way to bond with them. The moments you share making (and later eating) everything from cupcakes to pasta bakes will end up being some of your best memories – for both you and your child. (Plus, when your child is old enough to cook independently and asks if they can make dinner you can say, “yes!” — and take the night off!)

Download:

SUMMER SNACKS:

  •  Zipper Bag Fruit Salad – Once you’ve cut up the fruit for this easy recipe, it’s time to get even your littlest chefs involved. Kids of all ages will love spooning ingredients into the bag, shaking it up and pulling mint leaves off their stems for garnish. This is also a great opportunity to talk to them about health and nutrition — fruit is a healthy food that gives us energy to run, jump and play!
  • Your Favorite Quesadillas. Kids have a pretty short attention span, which is why quesadillas are a good go-to recipe for a quick cooking lesson. We’ve rounded up some ideas for fillings but you can use whatever you have on hand. Take a moment to teach your beginner cooks about safety (wash those hands before cooking! Stay back from the oven!) and then let them fill and assemble the quesadillas on a parchment-lined sheet pan. A grown-up can pop the pan into a preheated oven (under the broiler, for about one minute per side) and lunch or dinner is done.
  •  Alfredo Shrimp Scampi Dump Dinner Once kids are a little older and have a command of the basics, it’s time to start teaching them how to read a recipe and prepare all of their ingredients in advance. Dump dinners are perfect because, for the most part, all you need to do is add ingredients to a dish and bake. This gives kids the ability to focus and not feel overwhelmed — and plenty of time to go play while dinner cooks. And, depending on their age and/or skill level you can even start teaching them to use some handheld kitchen tools so that they can learn how to safely grate cheese, zest lemons or chop veggies and herbs (with plenty of adult supervision, of course!).
  • Nectarine Smoothies – This nectarine smoothie recipe tastes great on a warm summer day. Enjoy it on your patio or at a picnic! 
  • Crunchy Tuna Wraps – Packed with protein-rich tuna and fresh, crunchy veggies, these colourful wraps have sensational flavour—and they’re good for you, too
  • Healthy Peanut Butter Cookies – Only four ingredients and one bowl are needed for these healthy peanut butter cookies. If you want to make this recipe gluten free, make sure the oat bran was made in a certified gluten-free facility. 

  • Breakfast Banana Splits – These bright cups are pretty enough for a formal brunch, yet simple and nutritious, too. Feel free to substitute different fruits and cereals.

  • Chia Seed Protein Bites – I keep these little bites on hand in my refrigerator and grab them for breakfast or a snack when I’m in a hurry. We have a lot of food allergies in our family and I like to keep healthy snacks around that everyone can eat. This recipe has no gluten, eggs, dairy or corn, so it’s the perfect go-to treat in our house. 
  • Yogurt & Honey Fruit Cups – This tasty combo of fresh fruit and creamy orange-kissed yogurt is guaranteed to disappear fast from your breakfast table. 
Yogurt and honey fruit cups
  • Air-Fryer Potato Chips – Potato chips are simple to make in it and are an essential, crispy side for lunch.

  • Crispy Baked Wontons – These quick, versatile wontons are great for a savory snack or paired with a bowl of soothing soup on a cold day. I usually make a large batch, freeze half on a floured baking sheet, then store in an airtight container.
  • Mini Zucchini Pizzas Looking for low carb? This simple snack recipe is a fantastic way to satisfy your pizza cravings while skipping the usual carb-filled crust. 
  • Muffin-Tin Scrambled  – These can be made at Christmas to save time. Make a large batch as they freeze well, if there are any left! 

 

  • Caprese Salad Kabobs Trade in the usual veggie platter for these fun kabobs. In addition to preparing these for get-togethers, I often make these as snacks for my family. And because assembly is so easy, the kids often ask to help.
  • Strawberry-Rhubarb Ice Pop These cool, creamy pops are a deliciously different way to use up the bounty from your rhubarb patch. 

5. Reflect: Thoughts of the Day About Learning 💭

FAIRY TALES

wallpaper.com

wallpapercave.com

vectorstock.com

RISKY BEHAVIOUR

pinterest.com

clipart-library.com