WINTER BLUES BUSTERS

It’s hard to pump yourself up to go back to school after the holidays - and it’s difficult for children as well. Here are some little “happies” that might give you and your children something to look forward to in 2025!

Hot Chocolate Friday
I LOVE this idea! Ask each parent to send in a box of instant hot chocolate and an old coffee mug. End your week by letting each child stir up some hot chocolate. Read poems, say rhymes, read books, and fall in love with language as you sip your hot chocolate together!

Dress Up
We always looked forward to dress up days. Pajama parties, beach day (Yes, in January!), what I want to be when I grow up, my favorite book character, hat day, and silly sock day are just a few ideas. You can easily tie these in with units of study or literature. (Goodness, don’t forget about “instructional time”!)

Game Day
This was on a blog several weeks ago. Let children bring in games from home on Friday and play with their friends the last 30 minutes.

LIFT
A teacher in Atlanta explained that their whole grade level gets together for 30 minutes of LIFT every Friday. LIFT stands for “Learning Is Fun Time” and I think it’s a wonderful idea for 2025. It’d work well to put one class in charge each week and to relate songs, rhymes, stories, and games to standards and themes.

FANTASTIC FUN FRIDAY
Tell your children that they can EARN “fun” time on Friday. First, discuss what “fun” time might mean to them. Basically, it’s a time when they get to do whatever they want. When you catch the class on good behavior during the week they can earn a letter in the words “FANTASTIC FUN FRIDAY.” Write the letters as they earn them on the board. If they earn all the letters by Friday then their reward is to have fun the last 30 minutes. (You’ll be surprised that some of your students won’t know what to do at first. They’ll just walk around and walk around. Funny! Sooner or later they will figure it out!)

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).

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. 

JINGLE BELLS AND RING IN THE NEW YEAR

Jingle Bells
Chorus:
Jingle bells, jingle bells, (Pretend to hold bells and shake.)
Jingle all the way.
Oh, what fun it is to ride
In a one horse open sleigh. Hey! (Fist in the air.)
Jingle bells, jingle bells, (Pretend to jingle bells.)
Jingle all the way.
What fun it is to ride and sing
In a one horse open sleigh.

Dashing through the snow, (Pretend to hold reins and drive
In a one horse open sleigh sleigh.)
Over the fields we go,
Laughing all the way. (Hand on stomach and laugh.)
Bells on bobtail ring, (Pretend to drive sleigh.)
Making spirits bright.
What fun it is to ride and sing
A sleighing song tonight. (Chorus)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FI2yyHD1ejY

               

Here’s a book to go with the song:
www.drjean.org/html/monthly_act/act_2007/12_Dec/pg00.html


Sleigh Riding – Have children sit on the floor facing the same directions. Demonstrate how to hold the person’s waist in front of you. As you sing the song sway forwards and backwards to the beat as if riding a sleigh.


Jingle Bells – Let children thread several jingle bells on a pipe cleaner. Twist the ends together to make a bracelet children can shake as you sing.


Jingle Bell Painting - You will need an empty cheese ball container or similar cylinder shape with a lid. Cut a piece of paper so you can roll it and put it in the cylinder. Take two jingle bells. Drop one in red paint and the other in green paint. Use a spoon to transfer the bells to the can. Put on the lid, then shake up the can as you sing “Jingle Bells.” Take out the paper and you’ll have a jingle bell painting!
                                            

And if you like my "Banana Dance," then here's a holiday version just for you!!



https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E2-WXpB7Gm8

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.

GOALS AND CHEERS

Helping children think about positive character traits and set goals for the New Year can boost their self-confidence and the executive function.

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 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.

IS ANYBODY OUT THERE?

You know, sometimes I write these blogs and I wonder: "IS ANYBODY OUT THERE?  DOES ANYBODY READ THESE?"  And then I get a special message from a teacher like the one below:

Oh my goodness, Dr. Jean- you have hit the nail on the head!!! We are all online because of COVID and this is exactly what our school and our students’ parents were “Buzzing” about! In fact, our Kindergarten and First Grade team is starting a Projects Based Learning Project entitled “How can we create emotional connection through technology?”

We are starting by teaching about “play” - what toys kids played with TOGETHER in the early past ( they are making corn husk dolls and paper airplanes for homework this week), plus past before COVID, and of course now. 

The second week, we are making "All About Me" posters and learning about our classmates. 

The third week, we are learning what a friend is and learning social skills and facial cues- what listening looks like and sounds like (these songs are PERFECT!). 

The fourth week, we will brainstorm how to play through technology (but not using online computer games)- possibly self created games such as Simon Says, Mystery Bags, scavenger hunts, etc. 

The fifth week, the kids will be making “invitations” (posters, google slides, video) to invite others to their game they create....

PBL is supposed to have a "speaker" talk to the kids- we are still looking for someone - let us know if you might be interested in helping out! We are so looking forward to your next few emails on the SEL subject ! Thank you!!!!
 

Sincerely,

Alison Riegel- Kindergarten and Transitional Kindergarten

Elizabeth Whitson- First Grade

JUST BECAUSE GOALS FOR 2020

                           Happy New Year!!!                                  

If I were in charge of the world, these would be my JUST BECAUSE GOALS FOR 2020.

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!!!

Step into 2020
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.  

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 "2018" on the flips.  Children open each one and write (or draw) a goal for the New Year. 

 

Soaring in 2020 - 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.

                                                                                

YOU'LL SMILE THROUGH JANUARY WITH OUR HAPPIES!
http://drjean.org/html/songs/songStore_eBooks.html#JanHappies
                                
  

2019 - A YEAR OF FUNNESS!

A teenager who liked my “Banana Dance" asked, “Are you a real doctor or just a doctor of fun?” What could be better than being called a Dr. of Fun!

                      

e.e. cummings is one of the only poets I remember from college because of the delightful words he made up like “mud-lucious” and puddle-wonderful.” Lots of new words pop up every day now, such as FUNNESS. This is the definition I found on the interenet: “ Funness describes the most ultimate in any experience which would be described as fun, joyful, blissful, satisfactory, or even pleasurable. The epitome of fun.” That’s what childhood and learning should be in the best of worlds. (By the way, “funness” can also be used sarcastically, but I’m using the positive connotation.)

Engagement is a term that is appearing frequently in educational discussions because so many teachers seem to be struggling with getting children to focus and pay attention. Children are disengaging from the real world and living in a passive state where all the action takes place on the screen. A little more “funness” might be the answer to the dilemma. As I often say, “You have to reach them before you can teach them!”

Let’s see how we can add a little “funness” to engage children in learning and life in 2019!

1. Look your children in their eyes and smile. I don’t care where I go when I sing “I like you there’s no doubt about it” I have children in the palm of my hand.

2. Give you students 100% of your attention. Be in the moment!!! Send the message that YOU are the most important thing in the world right now. I’m giving you my best and I need to you to do the same.

3. Brain Research 101 says the brain likes anything that is novel, challenging, and new. Put something in a bag or box to create interest. Wear a pair of silly glasses. Use a strange voice.

4. Be enthusiastic! Teachers can add the magic to anything with their facial expressions, voice, and body language. Shut your door and be silly when you play a game or sing a song.

5. Physical proximity! Get close to your students. Create an intimate space by having the children sit on the floor in a circle. A gentle touch can send a positive message to the brain.

6. Do a movement activity to focus those busy hands. Lead children in a cheer or a clapping pattern. Use call backs and attention grabbers.

7. Turn skills you are working on into a game. When you say “game” that gets translated into children’s language as “play.”

8. Activate children’s senses. Keep them focused by stimulating their eyes, ears, and bodies.

9. Give students the opportunity to talk. People remember 70% of what they say. When children respond orally or talk with friends they are more likely to remember.

10. Use their name frequently. You might have a child day dreaming and simply saying their name will bring them back to reality.

STEP INTO 2019 WITH FUNKY FEET
Add a little fun each day with funky duct tape.  Write information you want to reinforce on a sheet of heavy paper and tape it to the floor near the classroom door. Children repeat the information each time they step on it 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!  Use this for reinforcing shapes, colors, numbers, etc.

                                         

HAPPY NEW YEAR - JUST BECAUSE!

Happy New Year!!!                                  

If I were in charge of the world, these would be my JUST BECAUSE GOALS FOR 2018.

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!!!

Step into 2018
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.  

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 "2018" on the flips.  Children open each one and write (or draw) a goal for the New Year. 


Soaring in 2018 - 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"!

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!

*Check out our January Happies for a download of this song and lots of other ideas to help you smile through January!  http://drjean.org/html/songs/purchaseHappies.php
                                
   

STEP INTO THE NEW YEAR

Funky Feet in 2017
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.  (Writing Standard W.3)

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 "2014" on the flips.  Children open each one and write (or draw) a goal for the New Year. 

Soaring in 2017 - 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).