STEP INTO THE NEW YEAR

Funky Feet in 2025

Step into the new year with this idea. All you'll need is some funky duct tape. Each day write some information you want to reinforce on a sheet of heavy paper and tape it to the floor with the funky tape by the classroom door. Children repeat the information each time as they go in and out the door. For example:

Letters - children say the letter and something that starts with the sound
Math facts - children say the answer
Sight words - children read the word

*Hint! You could also make letters, numbers, or shapes on the floor with the duct tape.

 

Ring in the New Year
(Tune: “We Wish You a Merry Christmas”)
Let’s all do a little ringing, (Shake hands as if ringing bells.)
Let’s all do a little ringing,
Let’s all do a little ringing
It’s a Happy New Year!

Let’s all do a little clapping… (Clap hands.)
Let’s all do a little dancing… (Dance around.)
Let’s all do a little smiling… (Smile.)

When is your birthday?
When is your birthday?
When is your birthday?
Stand up and cheer.


(Say months of the year.)
January, February, March…(Children stand up on their birthday month.)

Let’s all be a little kinder… (Pat friends on the back.)
For a Happy New Year!

*Download this book at drjean.org.


Yesterday, Today, and Tomorrow 

Make a brochure by folding a piece of paper into thirds. Label the sections “Yesterday”…”Today…”Tomorrow…” Children draw what they were like when they were little (babies or toddlers), what they look like now, and what they will be like when they are grown-up.
*You could also let children make a time line of their lives. 

New Year's Resolutions Flip Book
What is a New Year's resolution? Why do people make resolutions?
Make a flip book by folding a sheet of paper in half lengthwise. Fold in half. Fold in half again. Open. Cut halfway to the center fold as shown. Write the numerals "2025" on the flips. Children open each one and write (or draw) a goal for the New Year.

Soaring in 2025 

Let children draw (or write) goals for the New Year on a blank sheet of paper. Fold the paper into an airplane. Children state their goal and then fly their plane across the room (or outside).

CHEERS AND GOALS

Here are some strategies where children can set goals and take pride in their accomplishments.

Cheers and Goals
Give children a piece of paper. Have them fold it in half and write “Cheers” on one side and “Goals” on the other side. On the “Cheers” side encourage them to draw pictures of three things they have learned that make them feel proud. (Older students could label these and younger students could dictate descriptions.) On the “Goals” side children draw pictures of three things they are working on. Again, they can write sentences or dictate goals to the teacher.

*This would be a good work sample to share with parents at conference time.

Pride Portfolio
Invite each child to decorate a file folder and store it in a special box or tub in the classroom. When they do something they are proud of they can date it and store it in their folder.

•Hint! If you did this with an illustration and writing sample at the beginning of each month they could “revisit” past work and see how they are improving.


In addition to building a positive sense of self in children at school, it is important to give parents tools they can use at home.

Proud Parent
This book is a fantastic way to make children feel special! You will need a 3 ring notebook and blank paper for this project. Decorate the cover of the book with the title “The Proud Parent.” On the first page write these directions:

Today you have an opportunity to add a page
about your child in our PROUD PARENT BOOK.
Please put a picture of your child at the top of the page.
Next, write a short description of your child. You might
want to include your child’s physical attributes (hair
color, eyes, etc.), activities your child enjoys, and things
that make your child special.

Invite one child each day to take the book home so their parents can write about them.
Let children share what their parents have written about them the next day in class.

FOOTBALL FEVER

If you are college football fans like we are, this is an exciting time of year. Football gives us a distraction from the world's woes and it gives us something to cheer for and look forward to each weekend. Football can also be a “kick off” for teaching some skills in your classroom.

College Goals
It’s never too early to plant seeds of attending college in your students. Give them a dream and a goal! One school I visited displayed pennants of the schools where the teachers graduated from in the front hall. 

*Have the children brainstorm all the colleges and universities in your area. Talk about why it is important to go to college. 

*Encourage your students to think about where they would like to go to college. Give them paper shaped like pennants to decorate with their college dream. 

Math
Let children do surveys of favorite college teams.
Graph favorite teams.
Predict who will win the game. Who was right? Who was wrong?
Predict what the score will be. Who was closest?
*Let children choose a favorite player and write their number on a jersey. How many math facts can they think of to equal that number?

Social Studies
Use a map of the United States and locate where games will be played.

Internet Search
Look up team mascots and colors. Listen to college fight songs. Do exercises to fight songs.

Art
Cut pictures of players out of the newspaper or sports magazines. Challenge children to write creative stories about favorite players. They could also write letters to favorite players.

Guest Readers
Invite a local high school football team and cheerleading squad to visit your school to read books. There’s nothing more motivating to a young child than to see someone in a uniform model how “cool” it is to read!

Team Mascots
This game can be adapted to any school mascot, action hero, or seasonal character. Since I graduated from the University of Georgia, UGA was my first choice. This is a quick, simple game that can be played with any age level or any skill that needs to be reinforced. It’s the perfect game if you’ve got a few minutes before lunch or a few minutes at the end of the day. 

WHY? shapes, colors, letters, words, numerals, math facts, etc.
WHAT? flash cards, picture of a favorite school mascot
HOW? Have children sit in a circle and encourage them to identify the information on the flash cards as you place them on the floor. Tell the children to turn around and hide their eyes. Take “UGA” and slip it under one of the flash cards. The children turn back around and raise their hand if they think they know where UGA is hiding. One at a time, have children call out a word, letter, shape, etc., and then look under that card. The game continues until a child finds UGA. That child may then be “it” and hide the mascot.

*Use a pocket chart to play this game. Arrange the flash cards in the pocket chart and then hide the mascot under one of the cards as the children hide their eyes.

More? Make a concentration game using various college mascots.
Make a matching game where children match mascots to college names.
What characteristics do you need to dress up and be a school mascot?
Have children write which mascot they would like to be and why.

TIPS FOR 2024 LESSON PLANS!

WORKING ON LESSON PLANS TODAY?

Ring in the New Year
(Tune: “We Wish You a Merry Christmas”)
Let’s all do a little ringing, (Shake hands as if ringing bells.)
Let’s all do a little ringing,
Let’s all do a little ringing
It’s a Happy New Year!

Let’s all do a little clapping… (Clap hands.)
Let’s all do a little dancing… (Dance around.)
Let’s all do a little smiling… (Smile.)

When is your birthday?
When is your birthday?
When is your birthday?
Stand up and cheer.

(Say months of the year.)
January, February, March…(Children stand up on their birthday month.)

Let’s all be a little kinder… (Pat friends on the back.)
For a Happy New Year!


Yesterday, Today, and Tomorrow

Make a brochure by folding a piece of paper into thirds. Label the sections “Yesterday”…”Today…”Tomorrow…” Children draw what they were like when they were little (babies or toddlers), what they look like now, and what they will be like when they are grown-up.
*You could also let children make a time line of their lives. (Writing Standard W.3)




Soaring in 2024

Let children draw (or write) goals for the New Year on a blank sheet of paper. Fold the paper into an airplane. Children state their goal and then fly their plane across the room (or outside).

What I Didn't Get for Christmas! 

Here's a novel writing topic to discourage children from bragging about what they "got"!

Step into 2024
You'll need is some funky duct tape for this project. Each day write some information you want to reinforce on a sheet of heavy paper and tape it to the floor with the funky tape by the classroom door. Children repeat the information each time as they go in and out the door. For example:
Letters - children say the letter and something that starts with the sound
Math facts - children say the answer
Sight words - children read the word
*Hint! You could also make letters, numbers, or shapes on the floor with the duct tape.

Home Learning Adventures

You'll want to involve families in 2024 with these tips from Laura Pearson!

Home Learning Adventures for Parents and Children

 

Photo by Freepik

 

In today's fast-paced world, parents often search for meaningful ways to connect and engage with their children. While the importance of formal education is undeniable, the role of home in a child's learning journey is equally significant. It's here, within the familiar walls of the home, that parents can create enriching, interactive educational experiences that not only impart knowledge but also strengthen bonds. This article, shared by Dr. Jean and Friends, explores a myriad of creative ideas that parents can easily implement at home, turning everyday activities into exciting learning opportunities.

Experiment with Household Wonders

Imagine the sparkle in your child's eyes when they witness the eruption of a homemade volcano or the creation of a rainbow in a glass of water. Simple, safe scientific experiments using household items are not only fascinating but also immensely educational. Parents can guide their children through experiments like making a baking soda and vinegar volcano, exploring density with oil and water, or even creating a homemade compass. These activities teach basic scientific principles, encourage curiosity, and develop a love for learning.

Cooking Up Knowledge

Cooking is another excellent way to blend education with fun. In the kitchen, children can learn about measurements, fractions, and the importance of following instructions. Baking a cake, for example, can become a lesson in measuringingredients accurately or doubling a recipe, which involves simple multiplication of fractions. These activities also improve fine motor skills and introduce children to the concept of chemical reactions in cooking, like yeast causing dough to rise.

The Magic of Gardening

Creating a small garden or even a window box garden offers numerous educational benefits. Gardening teaches children about plant biology, the importance of environmental care, and the responsibility of nurturing living things. It's a hands-on experience in science, an opportunity to discuss nutrition, and a perfect way to connect with nature. Even in urban settings, a small container garden can be a source of wonder and learning.

Artistic Explorations

Art projects are a fantastic way to encourage creativity and self-expression. Engaging in activities such as painting, crafting, or sculpting allows children to explore different mediums, understand colors, shapes, and textures, and express their emotions and ideas visually. Parents can participate by providing materials, suggesting themes, or even joining in the creation process, making it a collaborative and bonding experience.

Writing and Imagination

Collaboratively writing stories or creating a family journal is an excellent way to develop language skills, creativity, and imagination. Parents and children can take turns writing sentences or paragraphs, building a story together. This activity enhances vocabulary, encourages creative thinking, and can become a cherished family memory if documented in a journal.

Mathematics Made Fun

Using games to make math fun is an effective educational strategy. Board games, card games, or even simple games like hopscotch can be tailored to include mathematical challenges. Counting, addition, subtraction, and even more complex operations like multiplication can be taught through these playful methods. It makes learning math less intimidating and more engaging for children.

The Path to Educational Leadership

For parents who find themselves deeply invested and passionate about teaching and learning at home, there's a broader horizon to explore. The world of education and educators is vast and ever-evolving. There are numerous opportunities for shaping change in educational systems and methodologies. By pursuing further education in this field, such as obtaining a relevant degree, parents can dig into the offering of transitioning from home educators to professional roles that impact a wider audience. This path not only allows for personal growth but also contributes to shaping the future of education for more children.

 

 

 

The home offers a plethora of opportunities for educational engagement between parents and children. Through simple, yet creative activities, parents can instill a love for learning, foster curiosity, and strengthen familial bonds. These educational experiences at home lay a strong foundation for lifelong learning and may even inspire parents to delve deeper into the world of education. Ultimately, it's about making learning an enjoyable and integral part of everyday life, thus preparing children for a future where they view the world with wonder and knowledge.

FREE TO TEACH IN 2023!

If I were in charge of the world, these would be my GOALS FOR 2023.

I would start each day by greeting my children with a smile and a handshake – just because!

I would sing a song to start my day – just because!

Every day I would read a book that I like to my children – just because!

I would take my class out for recess every day (yeah, old fashion run around and do whatever you want) – just because!

I would do a finger play each day – just because!

I would do cheers each day – just because!

I would end our day with a song – just because!

And I would shut my door and have more FUN – just because Dr. Jean said I should because I will be happier and my children will be, too!!!


THUMBS UP STATEMENTS

I found this idea that Brenda Lee Hernandez shared several years ago. Her statements are based on her school’s six pillars, but your students could think of 5 or 6 original statements. Write them on a language experience chart and then begin the day by sticking up your thumbs and repeating them.

I am respectful.
I am trustworthy.
I am responsible.
I am fair.
I am caring.
I use good manners.
I use kind words.
I can do it.
*Role-play these positive behaviors.
*Let students make books called “Thumbs Up for 2023.”

                                     

Step into 2023
You'll need is some funky duct tape for this project. Each day write some information you want to reinforce on a sheet of heavy paper and tape it to the floor with the funky tape by the classroom door. Children repeat the information each time as they go in and out the door. For example:
Letters - children say the letter and something that starts with the sound
Math facts - children say the answer
Sight words - children read the word
*Hint! You could also make letters, numbers, or shapes on the floor with the duct tape.




Yesterday, Today, and Tomorrow 

Make a brochure by folding a piece of paper into thirds. Label the sections “Yesterday”…”Today…”Tomorrow…” Children draw what they were like when they were little (babies or toddlers), what they look like now, and what they will be like when they are grown-up.
*You could also let children make a time line of their lives. 

Soaring in 2023 

Let children draw (or write) goals for the New Year on a blank sheet of paper. Fold the paper into an airplane. Children state their goal and then fly their plane across the room (or outside).

Sharing Good News (Jessica Williams)
Write children’s names on craft sticks and place in a jar that says “Good News.” The teacher starts every morning by sharing her own “good news.” The children clap or cheer for her. Next, she pulls a stick and the class sings, "Tell me something good!" That child shares their good news and then the class does a cheer. The teacher pulls the second stick and they sing, "Tell me something good" and then cheer. Do three children each day and then put those who have had a turn in an envelope and start all over again when everyone has had a turn.

CHEERS AND GOALS FOR 2022

Helping children set realistic goals will nurture the executive function and boost their self-confidence.

Cheers and Goals
Give children a piece of paper. Have them fold it in half and write “Cheers” on one side and “Goals” on the other side. On the “Cheers” side encourage them to draw pictures of three things they have learned that make them feel proud. (Older students could label these and younger students could dictate descriptions.) On the “Goals” side children draw pictures of three things they are working on. Again, they can write sentences or dictate goals to the teacher.

*This would be a good work sample to share with parents at conference time.

Paper Airplanes
Ask children to write and illustrate goals on a piece of paper. Next, demonstrate how to fold the paper into an airplane. Let students fly their airplanes across the room or on the playground as they visualize themselves achieving their goals.




Pride Portfolio
Invite each child to decorate a file folder and store in a special box or tub in the classroom. When they do something they are proud of they can date it and store it in their folder.

                                 
*Hint! If you did this with an illustration and writing sample at the beginning of each month they could “revisit” past work and see how they are improving.


New Year's Resolutions Flip Book
What is a New Year's resolution? Why do people make resolutions?
Make a flip book by folding a sheet of paper in half lengthwise. Fold in half. Fold in half again. Open. Cut halfway to the center fold as shown. Write the numerals "2022" on the flips. Children open each one and write (or draw) a goal for the New Year. 

PARENT CONFERENCES ARE AROUND THE CORNER!

Before you know it, it will be time for parent conferences. I used to dread conferences because many of the parents didn’t want to talk about their child. They wanted to talk about the neighbor’s kid or their “ex” or whatever. Once I started using this questionnaire my conferences became much more meaningful for me and the parents.

A week before conferences I’d ask the children, “Would you like me to give your parents some homework? Well, here is something they need to fill out and bring to our conference next week.”

Note! If parents show up without the form, simply smile and say, “I’ll give you a few minutes to fill this out before we get started.”

CONFERENCE QUESTIONNAIRE

Please fill out this form and bring it to your conference on __________________at _________________.

Child’s name__________________________

1. My child’s favorite activity at school is________________

2. My child expresses concern about_____________________

3. My child’s strong qualities are__________________________

4. Areas I feel my child needs to work on are_____________

5. Something I would like to see my child do at school is _______

6. Is there any special information about your child that you think we should know about?

https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B1SnEagA4jljYWFnNXNybFdyZVE/view?usp=sharing


Cheers and Goals
Here’s another idea for conference time. Ask parents to write down three things positive (cheers) about their child and three goals that they have for their child. This will give the teacher insight as to what is important to parents. It will also provide the teacher with the opportunity to say, “This is what I can do at school to help your child accomplish these goals. What can you do to help at home?”

Student Led Conferences
I must admit I never did these, but many schools are now using this approach and find if very successful. You can find videos and other useful information about student led conferences on the internet.

Conference Tips
Sit beside the parent at a table, rather than behind a desk.

Keep the conversation focused on the child.

Have samples of the child’s work to share with the parents. Focus on the total child, including intellectual, physical, social, and emotional development.

If there is a problem, brainstorm solutions and develop a plan for action.

End the conference on a positive note by reassuring the parents and thanking them for their support.

Provide an interpreter for parents who do not speak English.

Follow-up with the parents after the conference.

ARE YOU READY FOR SOME FOOTBALL?

If you are a college football fan like we are, this is an exciting time of year. Football gives us a distraction from the world's woes and it gives us something to cheer for and look forward to each weekend. Football can also be a “kick off” for teaching some skills in your classroom.

College Goals  - It’s never too early to plant seeds of attending college in your students. Give them a dream and a goal! One school I visited displayed pennants of the schools where the teachers graduated from in the front hall.

*Have the children brainstorm all the colleges and universities in your area. Talk about why it is important to go to college.

*Encourage your students to think about where they would like to go to college. Give them paper shaped like pennants to decorate with their college dream.

Math - Let children do surveys of favorite college teams.
Graph favorite teams.
Predict who will win the game. Who was right? Who was wrong?
Predict what the score will be. Who was closest?
*Let children choose a favorite player and write their number on a jersey. How many math facts can they think of to equal that number?

Social Studies – Use a map of the United States and locate where games will be played.

Internet Search – Look up team mascots and colors. Listen to college fight songs. Do exercises to fight songs.

Art – Cut pictures of players out of the newspaper or sports magazines. Challenge children to write creative stories about favorite players. They could also write letters to favorite players.

Guest Readers – Invite a local high school football team and cheerleading squad to visit your school to read books. There’s nothing more motivating to a young child than to see someone in a uniform model how “cool” it is to read!

Team Mascots - This game can be adapted to any school mascot, action hero, or seasonal character. Since I graduated from the University of Georgia, UGA was my first choice. This is a quick, simple game that can be played with any age level or any skill that needs to be reinforced. It’s the perfect game if you’ve got a few minutes before lunch or a few minutes at the end of the day.

 

 
WHY? shapes, colors, letters, words, numerals, math facts, etc. WHAT? flash cards, picture of a favorite school mascot
HOW? Have children sit in a circle and encourage them to identify the information on the flash cards as you place them on the floor. Tell the children to turn around and hide their eyes. Take “UGA” and slip it under one of the flash cards. The children turn back around and raise their hand if they think they know where UGA is hiding. One at a time, have children call out a word, letter, shape, etc., and then look under that card. The game continues until a child finds UGA. That child may then be “it” and hide the mascot.

*Use a pocket chart to play this game. Arrange the flash cards in the pocket chart and then hide the mascot under one of the cards as the children hide their eyes. 

                                  
More? Make a concentration game using various college mascots.
Make a matching game where children match mascots to college names.
What characteristics do you need to dress up and be a school mascot?
Have children write which mascot they would like to be and why.

I'M SO GLAD I CAME TO SCHOOL TODAY

End circle time on a positive note by doing a few cheers and inviting the children to share their goals for the day.

I’m So Glad I Came to School Today (“In My Heart There Rings a Melody”)
I’m so glad I came to school today,
I came to school today,
I came to school today.
I’m so glad I came to school today,
I came to be with all my friends.

Partner Share
Have children turn to a friend and share something they are looking forward to doing at school that day.


Toss and Tell
Take a bean bag or wadded up paper ball. Ask students to think of something that they are looking forward to doing at school. Toss the ball to a child. After they answer they toss the ball back to you.




Visualize
Have children close their eyes and think about what and how they are going to learn.


Fist List
Children make a fist and then hold up a finger for each thing that they are going to do at school that day.

Right Now! Right Now!
Say, “Right now, right now, right now, right now! Who can raise their hand and tell me something they are excited about doing today!”

Catch a Star
Ask children to think of something they are going to do to be a kind friend. Tell them to reach up and grab a star and then put it in their hearts.