tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-67968218881910123982024-03-19T20:18:00.202+11:00Learn with Play at HomeFun activities, crafts and ideas for kids. With handy tips on how to promote learning through play.Learn with Play at Homehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08323717740126935795noreply@blogger.comBlogger474125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6796821888191012398.post-67258406713016367792017-06-02T19:00:00.001+10:002021-07-26T13:49:16.329+10:00Family games night with XBox - Minecraft for families<span style="font-size: medium;">While at 4 year-old kinder last year, my son went to two different Minecraft themed birthday parties. He'd never even heard of Minecraft but these other 4 year olds certainly had! By age four, he was apparently already out of the loop of the electronic game craze sweeping the nation.<br />
<br />
</span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-pCDTXyts9p0/WSom88GoJ4I/AAAAAAAAQKs/dprzDwu4iSEr_fTpmdHYMfMmSYrSoUgFgCLcB/s1600/IMG_1759.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-pCDTXyts9p0/WSom88GoJ4I/AAAAAAAAQKs/dprzDwu4iSEr_fTpmdHYMfMmSYrSoUgFgCLcB/s640/IMG_1759.JPG" width="640" /></span></a></div>
<span style="font-size: medium;"><br />
This didn't phase me. I am very mindful when it comes to the amount and type of screen time that my children have and the idea of them sitting at a computer alone, staring at a screen, just didn't appeal to me. So, thoughts of my son also playing Minecraft were shelved.<br />
<br />
That was until recently, when I was contacted to see if our family would like to experience the role that Xbox could play in our home - particularly for <b>family bonding</b>. This was an interesting concept as gaming consoles weren't really on my radar at that point, but family time and family bonding is always a big priority. With an enthusiastic thumbs-up from my husband and two children (aged 5 and 8), we agreed to give it a whirl.<br />
<br />
</span><h3><span style="font-size: medium;">
Xbox One S system</span></h3>
<span style="font-size: medium;"><br />
</span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5d6nr6va5Yg/WSopTm34a6I/AAAAAAAAQK4/9U6C6Kxi5xk4gvLSiOPhemPq1Yaw6yS4gCLcB/s1600/xbox%2Bone%2Bs.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="500" data-original-width="800" height="250" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5d6nr6va5Yg/WSopTm34a6I/AAAAAAAAQK4/9U6C6Kxi5xk4gvLSiOPhemPq1Yaw6yS4gCLcB/s400/xbox%2Bone%2Bs.jpg" width="400" /></span></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: medium;">
As it turns out, some game consoles are not just game consoles these days. Where have I been? </span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: medium;">
The Xbox One S system is a <b>multi entertainment unit </b>that you can use not only for your game playing, but for all your entertainment needs, including <b>watching films, TV, streaming Netflix, Stan, live TV, Foxtel Go, YouTube or Twitch</b>. It's got it all, and better yet, with the Xbox One S, you can view a range of <b>ultra-high definition 4K HDR</b> content from specific BlueRay disks, a variety of content on Netflix and other apps, or select Xbox One games. What this means is that we are finally seeing the full capabilities of our television in 4K, and can I say, it is SO clear. </span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: medium;">
I can't wait to get some new BlueRay movies and see the difference with ultra-high definition. <b>Family movie nights</b> just got a whole lot clearer!</span></div>
<h3 style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: medium;"><br />Bring the family together for the ultimate family games night</span></h3>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: medium;">
We love family games night. We have a number of different card and board games that we rotate through regularly, and I love the different <b>learning</b> we can do together (often maths, problem-solving, reading, speaking and social skills), and most importantly, the <b>family bonding</b> that comes from spending time together. </span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: medium;">
Of course, we all know that playing games can result in tears and tantrums (and not just always from the young kids), however, I think that working through conflict (sibling rivalry anyone?) and not always winning, are important parts of what children can <i>experience and learn, from playing games together</i>. </span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: medium;"><b>Parents playing along with their children</b> are at an advantage to be able to <i>model and demonstrate how to deal with not coming first, things not going our way, being outwitted, outplayed and more</i>. Social and Emotional skills are very important areas that children need to work on and develop over time.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: medium;">
Teachable moments while playing games together include:</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-size: medium;">how to lose gracefully </span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: medium;">how to be a respectful winner</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: medium;">how to work together </span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: medium;">how to solve problems</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: medium;">how to encourage others</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: medium;">how to play just for fun</span></li>
</ul>
<span style="font-size: medium;"><br />
</span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: medium;">
With an <b>Xbox One S</b> in our house, one could be worried that this time and these teachable moments could be lost to the call of the screen, but quite to the contrary, we can still use it to bring everyone together. The difference is that instead of the children playing games alone, we all play together. We learn the games together, we come up with ways to include everyone, and we have a brilliant time together with all of the teachable moments of a traditional board game night.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: medium;">
When playing games together on the Xbox, there are 2 main formats that you could choose to play in:</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-size: medium;">Single player pass and play: Where one person plays at a time while the other family members watch and offer tips and encouragement.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: medium;">Co-op mode: Where 2 or 4 players play together at the same time with their own controllers and characters.</span></li>
</ul>
<div>
<span style="font-size: medium;"><br />
Together as a family you can work out what sort of format is going to work best, depending on the game you've chosen to play. </span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Qw69-wdeUEM/WSo7X4Zaj1I/AAAAAAAAQLU/RqV3yrD-xPMUV6VL36zXxn6nfL7zAAk3gCLcB/s1600/xbox%2Bone%2Bminecraft.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="347" data-original-width="463" height="478" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Qw69-wdeUEM/WSo7X4Zaj1I/AAAAAAAAQLU/RqV3yrD-xPMUV6VL36zXxn6nfL7zAAk3gCLcB/s640/xbox%2Bone%2Bminecraft.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-9QyM8bTGr5E/WSo7cMcmSNI/AAAAAAAAQLY/CLSmJOQ8HWsWEKXzUrwvm9Buwsen1ULEwCLcB/s1600/family%2Bcontrollers.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-9QyM8bTGr5E/WSo7cMcmSNI/AAAAAAAAQLY/CLSmJOQ8HWsWEKXzUrwvm9Buwsen1ULEwCLcB/s640/family%2Bcontrollers.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div>
<h4 style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: medium;">
Minecraft Family Play</span></h4>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><span style="font-size: medium;">
Our first foray into a <b>family gaming night</b> was with the ever popular, Minecraft. Finally I was going to get a bit more of an idea of what I've heard so much chatter about both online and at the school where I teach. I admit that I was curious to see the potential for learning and education within the Minecraft format.<br />
</span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: medium;"><b>Minecraft</b> is an open-world game that promotes creativity, collaboration and problem-solving in an immersive environment where the only limit is your imagination. </span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><span style="font-size: medium;">
Using Minecraft from an <b>education</b> standpoint, could include anything from visiting an ancient civilisation and creating a setting for a story, to exploring math concepts using Minecraft blocks, practicing collaboration, problem solving, digital citizenship and leadership skills while designing experiments and demonstrating mastery. A platform like Minecraft can definitely inspire children and students to explore, create and learn.<br />
<br />
<b>Fun tips for playing together as a family in Minecraft:</b><br />
</span><div>
<span style="font-size: medium;"><b><br />Create family roles and responsibilities</b> – Have one person play the builder, one the miner and one the harvester. This helps to ensure everyone has a role to play and can teach important social skills around working together, collaboration and sharing. Mix it up regularly so everyone gets a chance to try something new.<br />
<br />
<b>Set a challenge </b>– In creative mode (that's where we started), you have the freedom to do whatever you like. Having limitless opportunity can be overwhelming, especially at first so it's best to set a challenge of building something either separately or together, a train, a giant pumpkin or even a castle. Compare ideas and work together to find a solution to challenges. By working together kids can learn a range of problem solving skills.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: medium;"><i>Challenge idea: Work together to build the ultimate family home in just one hour. Have different people playing the roles of builders, miners and harvesters.</i><br />
</span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-wlk39woxgp4/WSo7hRj1sAI/AAAAAAAAQLc/XMcxtYyH6U87yXYWYFeyZvyrsDbkqxeQQCLcB/s1600/family%2Bminecraft%2Bxbox.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-wlk39woxgp4/WSo7hRj1sAI/AAAAAAAAQLc/XMcxtYyH6U87yXYWYFeyZvyrsDbkqxeQQCLcB/s640/family%2Bminecraft%2Bxbox.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-nVphrBdG0J4/WSo7LgR-f3I/AAAAAAAAQLI/wZp_ItQ1skoHIvLAfwX90wfpAEvCL3skwCLcB/s1600/learning%2Bxbox.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-nVphrBdG0J4/WSo7LgR-f3I/AAAAAAAAQLI/wZp_ItQ1skoHIvLAfwX90wfpAEvCL3skwCLcB/s640/learning%2Bxbox.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div><span style="font-size: medium;">
If you are all completely new to Minecraft (like we were), you will probably spend about an hour together just going through the tutorials, working out how everything works, what you have to do, how to control your characters, etc. There's plenty to read and to navigate so playing together as a family is great for assisting with all of this.<br />
<br />
The next time you all play, then you can start with some family challenges like those suggested above.<br />
</span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-llTKPPr9BMo/WSo7VJ93vPI/AAAAAAAAQLQ/kUH8AGhXgfgPodoWgATS7bbG6fWOA4E0ACLcB/s1600/playing%2Bxbox%2Btogether.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="400" data-original-width="640" height="400" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-llTKPPr9BMo/WSo7VJ93vPI/AAAAAAAAQLQ/kUH8AGhXgfgPodoWgATS7bbG6fWOA4E0ACLcB/s640/playing%2Bxbox%2Btogether.png" width="640" /></span></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: medium;">
Occasionally we let the children play together for a set time, under supervision and the agreement that cooperation is key and the game is over if they can't cooperate. The teamwork, encouragement and cooperation that's being displayed has been great and it's amazing how when children <i>really</i> want to do something, they are able to pull out all the stops!</span></div>
<h4 style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></b></h4>
<h4 style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b><span style="font-size: medium;">Other family game ideas on Xbox One:</span></b></h4>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b><span style="font-size: medium;">Lego Batman</span></b></div><span style="font-size: medium;">
With Lego Batman, you dive into the DC universe and experience the world in Lego. Here you need to work together to solve problems which require collaboration and talking, go on an adventure, fight evil characters and be the hero! Go family co-op with this game to solve the riddles of Gotham together and save the city of Gotham.<br />
</span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<b><span style="font-size: medium;">FIFA 2017</span></b></div>
<div><span style="font-size: medium;">
Set up the ultimate family tournament in FIFA 2017 by selecting teams, the stadium and favourite players and then battling it out to take the family crown!</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: medium;"><b>Take it to the next level</b> by connecting with friends and family around the world by setting up your own private club. With Clubs, you can create your own small gaming community of people you trust. This would really take a family game night up a notch (especially if you can convince your elderly overseas relatives to get on board too!).<br />
<br /></span></div>
<h3 style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</h3>
<h3 style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: medium;">
Managing play time</span></h3>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: medium;">
And lastly, if I'm talking about screen time, then I have to also mention managing screen time. For me, it is important to be able to manage screen time for my children, so I am happy that this is nice and easy with Xbox. </span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: medium;">
Through our Microsoft family account online, I am able to manage my children's account, including restrictions on games they'd be able to play (based on age, etc.), internet access and enforcing screen limits on both the hours and times of day that my children can play.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3B5-qb28aXg/WSo7PKKzS6I/AAAAAAAAQLM/8c3AVwHlxpY_ins2xmu4mWWPcKoDQId2ACLcB/s1600/microsoft%2Bparental%2Bcontrols.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1278" data-original-width="750" height="400" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3B5-qb28aXg/WSo7PKKzS6I/AAAAAAAAQLM/8c3AVwHlxpY_ins2xmu4mWWPcKoDQId2ACLcB/s400/microsoft%2Bparental%2Bcontrols.png" width="233" /></span></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: medium;">
I can also get emails that update me on my children's use, allowing me to keep track of it. The picture above shows one of our Saturday night family game nights.. which I can see went over by 16 minutes, haha. Certainly makes it easy to monitor (and to prove to the children when they don't believe their time is up).</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b><span style="font-size: medium;">Do you play Xbox together as a family?</span></b></div>
<span style="font-size: medium;"><br />
<br />
</span><div style="text-align: center;">
<div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: medium;">
Happy playing,</span></div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: medium;"><b><span>Debs :)</span></b><br />
<b><span><br /></span></b></span></div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: medium;"><span><em style="background-color: white; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><span style="color: #111111; font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 21.9833px;">{Disclosure: this post is brought to you by Xbox Australia. We were gifted an Xbox One S pack for our review. </span></span></em></span><em style="background-color: white; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><span style="color: #111111; font-family: inherit; line-height: 21.9833px;">As always, opinions expressed in this post are my own and my families'.)</span></em></span>
</div>
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="color: #0b5394;">Look where else we are. Are you following along? :)</span></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/learnwithplayathome" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vkHOFWBJK4o/UYyIgOBU9wI/AAAAAAAAGxo/RvuMjfHQ8L0/s1600/facebook.png" width="45" /></a><a href="http://pinterest.com/debstar4/" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Q4D1znEaQ1o/UYyIhLF1kZI/AAAAAAAAGyA/_ZtdQ6RKoXo/s1600/pinterest.png" width="45" /></a><a href="https://twitter.com/Learn_with_Play" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Bmqmpb9Xyjs/UYyIhMG5E3I/AAAAAAAAGyE/YAcBYCgfHSQ/s1600/twitter.png" width="45" /></a><a href="https://plus.google.com/u/0/113416249899539659575" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-44-9pseqqU4/UYyIgD7LORI/AAAAAAAAGxs/9dX88h__ySA/s1600/google%252B.png" width="45" /></a><a href="http://instagram.com/learnwithplayathome" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2fJM8P2Waec/UYyIgHDR4OI/AAAAAAAAGxw/p3Qh6jbkY3E/s1600/instagram.png" width="45" /></a><a href="mailto:learnwithplayathome@gmail.com" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jxw1Ykf18tU/UYyIgoSn7YI/AAAAAAAAGx0/h0Bdknuiv20/s1600/mail.png" width="45" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="color: #444444;">New Here? Subscribe to get all activities sent directly to you</span></b></div>
<form action="http://feedburner.google.com/fb/a/mailverify" method="post" onsubmit="window.open('http://feedburner.google.com/fb/a/mailverify?uri=LearnWithPlayHome', 'popupwindow', 'scrollbars=yes,width=550,height=520');return true" style="border: 1px solid rgb(204, 204, 204); padding: 3px; text-align: center;" target="popupwindow">
Enter your email address:<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<input name="email" style="width: 140px;" type="text" /><br /></div>
<input name="uri" type="hidden" value="LearnWithPlayHome" /><input name="loc" type="hidden" value="en_US" /><input type="submit" value="Subscribe" /><br />
Delivered by <a href="http://feedburner.google.com/" target="_blank">FeedBurner</a></form>
</div>
Learn with Play at Homehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08323717740126935795noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6796821888191012398.post-47580056895726566302016-11-23T12:55:00.001+11:002016-11-23T12:55:08.973+11:00Travel with Kids. What to Pack<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Ro9Wx9AXrIQ/WCpwnoBW28I/AAAAAAAAQEg/iDsgz2eB9qIkd11POqcuZCB94K8FiEtPgCPcB/s1600/Travel%2Bwith%2BKids.%2BWhat%2Bto%2BPack.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Ro9Wx9AXrIQ/WCpwnoBW28I/AAAAAAAAQEg/iDsgz2eB9qIkd11POqcuZCB94K8FiEtPgCPcB/s640/Travel%2Bwith%2BKids.%2BWhat%2Bto%2BPack.png" width="448" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I love travelling with my kids. Travelling with children can be an absolute blast, but the reality is that it's never going to be as easy or stress-free as if you were travelling without them. You have little humans to consider with everything you do, and being in foreign places will always mean you have a heightened sense of alert around you. Whilst I always return home exhausted and needing of another holiday to recover, the joy, learning, experiences and memories, make travelling with kids all worthwhile. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-IBG8wFeQOaw/WCvtuUC4hZI/AAAAAAAAQFY/38razkt8giIaIsJsWOvRzddqzEDfXD9GQCPcB/s1600/vanuatu.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-IBG8wFeQOaw/WCvtuUC4hZI/AAAAAAAAQFY/38razkt8giIaIsJsWOvRzddqzEDfXD9GQCPcB/s640/vanuatu.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sitting with the local school children in Vanuatu at lunchtime.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Over the years, I've planned and packed many, many times for both short and long stays. We've done camping trips, (both on and off-grid), interstate holidays and overseas travel with our children from as young as 10 months old, so I've had the time to figure out which were the best things for us to pack for the kids, and what was not as necessary.<br />
<div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-c5WVvYbBswI/WCvixTel_eI/AAAAAAAAQFA/x2tOStCixlsCWhP4HccB1jiMmiWeYy_dwCPcB/s1600/elephant%2Bbali.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-c5WVvYbBswI/WCvixTel_eI/AAAAAAAAQFA/x2tOStCixlsCWhP4HccB1jiMmiWeYy_dwCPcB/s640/elephant%2Bbali.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My son's first elephant safari in Bali at age 10 months. He slept through it. Can you spot him?</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Other than the obvious things, like clothes, bathers, toiletries etc. here are my favourite items to pack, which should hopefully make travelling with children easier and more fun for everyone:<br />
<br />
<h3>
Travel with Kids. Top 10 things to Pack</h3>
<b></b><br />
<ul><b>
<li><b>Hotel Activity Pack</b></li>
</b></ul>
<b>
</b>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-116fleodTYQ/WCleQMvw5JI/AAAAAAAAQEM/gAuoMtsMYVMNdIew3TGb2bSvQ1fwMFB3gCPcB/s1600/DIY%2BKids%2BTravel%2Band%2BHotel%2BActivity%2BKit.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-116fleodTYQ/WCleQMvw5JI/AAAAAAAAQEM/gAuoMtsMYVMNdIew3TGb2bSvQ1fwMFB3gCPcB/s640/DIY%2BKids%2BTravel%2Band%2BHotel%2BActivity%2BKit.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
There are often times when travelling with kids that someone is going to need some down-time in your hotel. As hotel rooms aren't always the most interesting places for children to play, we always take this handy travel pack, kept in an A4 sized pencil case, full of open-ended creative materials that you can use for a range of different activities on the go. This has been pulled out and used in different ways on so many of our travels, even when I think we probably won't need it, so I'd always have it with me just in case. You can check out what we use all the materials for <a href="http://www.learnwithplayathome.com/2014/12/diy-kids-hotel-activity-pack.html">here</a>.<br />
<br />
<b></b><br />
<ul><b>
<li><b>Snap-Lock Bags</b></li>
</b></ul>
<b>
</b>
Seriously, I wouldn't travel without a stash of these plastic snap/zip-lock style bags. We use them when travelling all the time for things like separating outfits (if you're feeling super organised!), keeping wet or dirty items in (like bathers or socks etc.), storing and packing snacks for the day (often a banana or croissant from breakfast make their way in), keeping items like your phone etc. dry when by the pool/ocean, storing the sunscreen tube that just got a big split in it (yep, it happens) and so much more! I take both the sandwich size and the large bags with us.<br />
<br />
<ul>
<li><b>Home Comforts (Favourite soft toy/night light/pillowcase)</b></li>
</ul>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tKbkEf4nCZY/WCleSefyM4I/AAAAAAAAQEM/HFolsMtdV0YLILZzbFrpG_gynUA0dr88gCPcB/s1600/P6271391.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tKbkEf4nCZY/WCleSefyM4I/AAAAAAAAQEM/HFolsMtdV0YLILZzbFrpG_gynUA0dr88gCPcB/s640/P6271391.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<b><br /></b>
We've slept in many different room configurations when travelling as a family. From two double beds in a single room, to separate rooms, to kids sleeping in a lounge room on a fold-out sofa bed and even once in a porta-cot in a bathroom. When it comes to getting (often over-tired and stimulated) kids to sleep in foreign places, having a few home comforts can make a big difference. Their favourite toy tends to go without saying. Other items that can be very small to pack but can really help, include a little night light and one of your child's pillowcases. Their pillowcase over a hotel pillow gives them somewhere familiar to lay their head, and can double at the end of your trip as a way to transport all your dirty clothes home.<br />
<br />
<ul>
<li><b>Drink Bottle</b></li>
</ul>
<br />
It seems so obvious and yet I've often forgotten to pack one with us. Having your own drink bottle, in most circumstances, will help you save money instead of constantly buying drinks out for thirsty kids, and of course helps ensure everyone is kept well hydrated while travelling. I've found that even in the countries where we could only drink bottled water, it was still cheaper to buy large bottles of water and pour them into the kids' individual drink bottles that they could keep with them.<br />
<br />
<b></b><br />
<ul><b>
<li><b>Snacks</b></li>
</b></ul>
<b>
</b>
Yes, there is food available pretty much anywhere you travel to, however, I've still found that having a bunch of pre-packaged snacks that my children are familiar with (eg. rice crackers, pretzels, nuts, dried fruit, muesli bars, etc.) thrown in the suitcase can be an absolute sanity saver! Hungry kids can make for grumpy, whingy kids, and telling them that they can have something at the next rest stop or the next shop you pass etc. doesn't always cut it. It'll also save you money not having to buy food every time they get hungry. I've also found that in some foreign countries, my children may be feeling adventurous with food one minute, and another minute they just want to eat something familiar. Having those snacks with you will help you out with that, and as they're consumable, it means you don't have to take them back home with you.<br />
<br />
<ul>
<li><b>Swim shirts/Rash Vests</b></li>
</ul>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-lwy2Bv3y6_E/WCleR3-bYTI/AAAAAAAAQEM/s7HeIrPwjuAsppk50w5KL6CFIaQJdT7zwCPcB/s1600/P6251165.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-lwy2Bv3y6_E/WCleR3-bYTI/AAAAAAAAQEM/s7HeIrPwjuAsppk50w5KL6CFIaQJdT7zwCPcB/s640/P6251165.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
If you're going to have kids in the water a lot, (which tends to be how many of our holidays play out), the best way to protect them is with a long sleeve swim shirt. It will also save you from reapplying sunscreen constantly to so much of their body. We always take a couple with us for each child to rotate daily as we've found that often things can take longer to dry than you imagine, particularly in really humid areas.<br />
Other sun smart items that you should consider packing are sun and swim hats and sunglasses and goggles.<br />
A couple of small pool toys/inflatables, if you can fit them in, we've found also great for keeping kids entertained in the water and for making new friends on your travels.<br />
<br />
<ul>
<li><b>Baby Wipes</b></li>
</ul>
<br />
I don't have babies any more but baby wipes are still an essential when we travel. They are great at spot cleaning any messes on hotel fabrics, kids clothing and of course all those sticky hands and faces.<br />
<br />
<ul>
<li><b>Scooters</b></li>
</ul>
<br />
<img border="0" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-e4xpesMbqFk/WCleNg1xQ5I/AAAAAAAAQEM/KuNg1sEZtHMd5m8q-J3e5M8neOLfD5lrQCPcB/s640/PA290181.jpg" width="640" /><br />
<br />
Scooters? Really? Yes, I too would have questioned that at some point, but let me tell you, after travelling with them on our recent interstate trip to Sydney, they are definitely something that will be coming with us on most travel in the future (both interstate and overseas). <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-vNma0vh51cY/WCvtqYSvR7I/AAAAAAAAQFY/eG01CibyXr4qmJufMygWYjCCumiFH0jKgCPcB/s1600/UNADJUSTEDNONRAW_thumb_719b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-vNma0vh51cY/WCvtqYSvR7I/AAAAAAAAQFY/eG01CibyXr4qmJufMygWYjCCumiFH0jKgCPcB/s640/UNADJUSTEDNONRAW_thumb_719b.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
We first saw <a href="https://www.microscooters.com.au/?utm_source=learnwithplayathome&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=travel" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">scooters</a> on our travels, on a small island off the coast off Espiritu Santo in Vanuatu, about a year and a half ago. Another family with two children similar in age to our kids, had brought them with them, and the four children enjoyed taking turns around the boardwalks of the resort. What a novel idea, I though.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-JMaOBMpO6G0/WCleVKf2C9I/AAAAAAAAQEM/p2IQf-ZdlDIn3qU5pq36Y9phlDibpjulgCPcB/s1600/micro%2Bscooting.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-JMaOBMpO6G0/WCleVKf2C9I/AAAAAAAAQEM/p2IQf-ZdlDIn3qU5pq36Y9phlDibpjulgCPcB/s640/micro%2Bscooting.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
One of the main things that we love to do when we travel is to explore. To get out there and really see the sights. Often this means lots of walking, which can end in a lot of complaining from children.<br />
Bringing our scooters with us, means that we can explore further and wider than we normally would, whilst still burning energy for minimal effort. Plus, it's just really fun!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FoCLthprBLA/WCleMtQdjcI/AAAAAAAAQEM/mpX7zWsN9cM6fRjLifXTz6LBIJ4ausNLQCPcB/s640/family%2Bscooting.jpg" width="640" /></div>
<br />
On this trip we brought two <a href="https://www.microscooters.com.au/scooters/adult-scooters/sa0031-white/?utm_source=learnwithplayathome&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=travel" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Micro adult scooters</a> (black and white), two <a href="https://www.microscooters.com.au/scooters/kids-scooters/sprite-sprite/?utm_source=learnwithplayathome&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=travel" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Micro Sprite scooters</a> and four helmets (along with a weekend's worth of clothes and essentials for four people) in just two standard/large sized suitcases. (If we were travelling for a couple of weeks, we'd probably take one extra suitcase for extra clothes between our family of four or hand-luggage, which was unnecessary for this trip.) The larger adults scooters (with the bigger wheels) each weigh 5.3 kilograms and the more compact Micro Sprite weighs just 2.7 kilos. With a luggage weight allowance of 30 kilos per person, we easily come in under weight (in fact, both suitcases were under 20 kilos).<br />
<br />
<img border="0" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-uTle9XKUbQI/WCleTE5ZFnI/AAAAAAAAQEM/y93BczuYmIALeGU-vSmlnBIcvuvu6GJjQCPcB/s640/micro%2Bharbour.jpg" width="640" /><br />
<br />
The fact that we were so easily able to pack all these extra scooters actually surprised us a little. At first I'd planned on only taking the kids' scooters with us but when we gave it a try, we found that we could pack them all! With the distance we ended up covering, boy am I glad that we did. I could never have kept up with the kids and travelled the distance we covered, on foot. We saw so much more than we would have if we were either walking or driving. It was great!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-rNV5ylDpzS4/WCleUXtzRnI/AAAAAAAAQEM/4tN0SOeyexYVQkKLXNPLzFmyZQ8cBfn8QCPcB/s1600/scooting%2Bsydney.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-rNV5ylDpzS4/WCleUXtzRnI/AAAAAAAAQEM/4tN0SOeyexYVQkKLXNPLzFmyZQ8cBfn8QCPcB/s640/scooting%2Bsydney.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
My kids adore their scooters and their lightweight and foldable design make them an easy wheeler for kids as young as five years old to use, store and carry. I love that they'll grow with them throughout all the primary years. My husband and I are rather fond of ours too. You can tell that they are top quality.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-WgKYJ0LH9jw/WClePDOjhVI/AAAAAAAAQEM/K42LNNCli1cWmbf_wVFUFxguqBR6kIciQCPcB/s1600/micro%2Bsights.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-WgKYJ0LH9jw/WClePDOjhVI/AAAAAAAAQEM/K42LNNCli1cWmbf_wVFUFxguqBR6kIciQCPcB/s640/micro%2Bsights.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
We can't wait to travel with them again!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<ul>
<li><b>Electronic Tablets with Books and Movies</b></li>
</ul>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9iF17DVl7x8/WCleQ8S-JUI/AAAAAAAAQEM/Ro5_hZ1rXXM3ABJo4lOtc3hUNEleOpUuwCPcB/s1600/IMG_4084.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9iF17DVl7x8/WCleQ8S-JUI/AAAAAAAAQEM/Ro5_hZ1rXXM3ABJo4lOtc3hUNEleOpUuwCPcB/s640/IMG_4084.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<b><br /></b>Home routines, like reading a book before bed, can help children get to sleep in unfamiliar places. Bringing a lot of books with us can take up a lot of room and add a fair amount of weight to your suitcase, so having a tablet loaded up with books is a great alternative.<br />
Kid's movies and educational games can also be great to have on your electronic tablet as well, as they can be a life saver in the hotel room, waiting around airports and for plane travel etc. Don't forget to also pack headphones so they can be used in busy places and if you're clever and bring the right cable and have the right know-how, you could hook your tablet up to your hotel room television (if there is one) and let the kids have a movie before bed.<br />
<br />
<ul>
<li><b>First Aid Kit</b></li>
</ul>
<br />
Probably another obvious item to pack, but a first aid kit is something we've always had to use in some way or other with our kids and we'd never travel without it. In our first aid kit (for the kids) we have: band aids/surgical tape, antiseptic wipes, a bandage, antiseptic cream, insect bite cream, insect repellent, sunscreen, Aloe Vera after-sun cream, children's paracetamol, electrolyte icy poles (can be drunk or frozen for kids to suck on if dehydrated), jelly beans and throat lozenges (dry sore throats are common when in recycled and air-conditioned air). We usually have two first aid kits. One bigger one that stays in the luggage (kept in a large zip-lock bag is fine) and a smaller kit with the more basic items (eg. sunscreen, wipes, band aids) that is always in our day pack.<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b>What other items have you found essential for making travel with children as fun and easy as can be?</b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<div style="text-align: left;">
Happy travels,</div>
</div>
<span style="font-size: large;">Debs :)</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><em style="background-color: white; font-size: medium; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><span style="color: #111111; font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 21.9833px;">{Disclosure: this post is brought to you by <a href="https://www.microscooters.com.au/?utm_source=learnwithplayathome&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=travel" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Micro Scooters</a>. We were gifted the scooters for our review. </span></span></em></span><em style="background-color: white; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><span style="color: #111111; font-family: inherit; line-height: 21.9833px;">As always, opinions expressed in this post are my own and my families'.)</span></em><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="color: #0b5394;">Look where else we are. Are you following along? :)</span></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/learnwithplayathome" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vkHOFWBJK4o/UYyIgOBU9wI/AAAAAAAAGxo/RvuMjfHQ8L0/s1600/facebook.png" width="45" /></a><a href="http://pinterest.com/debstar4/" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Q4D1znEaQ1o/UYyIhLF1kZI/AAAAAAAAGyA/_ZtdQ6RKoXo/s1600/pinterest.png" width="45" /></a><a href="https://twitter.com/Learn_with_Play" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Bmqmpb9Xyjs/UYyIhMG5E3I/AAAAAAAAGyE/YAcBYCgfHSQ/s1600/twitter.png" width="45" /></a><a href="https://plus.google.com/u/0/113416249899539659575" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-44-9pseqqU4/UYyIgD7LORI/AAAAAAAAGxs/9dX88h__ySA/s1600/google%252B.png" width="45" /></a><a href="http://instagram.com/learnwithplayathome" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2fJM8P2Waec/UYyIgHDR4OI/AAAAAAAAGxw/p3Qh6jbkY3E/s1600/instagram.png" width="45" /></a><a href="mailto:learnwithplayathome@gmail.com" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jxw1Ykf18tU/UYyIgoSn7YI/AAAAAAAAGx0/h0Bdknuiv20/s1600/mail.png" width="45" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="color: #444444;">New Here? Subscribe to get all activities sent directly to you</span></b></div>
<form action="http://feedburner.google.com/fb/a/mailverify" method="post" onsubmit="window.open('http://feedburner.google.com/fb/a/mailverify?uri=LearnWithPlayHome', 'popupwindow', 'scrollbars=yes,width=550,height=520');return true" style="border: 1px solid #ccc; padding: 3px; text-align: center;" target="popupwindow">
Enter your email address:<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<input name="email" style="width: 140px;" type="text" /><br /></div>
<input name="uri" type="hidden" value="LearnWithPlayHome" /><input name="loc" type="hidden" value="en_US" /><input type="submit" value="Subscribe" /><br />
Delivered by <a href="http://feedburner.google.com/" target="_blank">FeedBurner</a></form>
</div>
Learn with Play at Homehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08323717740126935795noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6796821888191012398.post-1091559005646832712016-09-16T07:00:00.000+10:002016-09-16T07:00:00.175+10:00Up! eBook. 30+ creative, maths, science and literacy construction and art based activities.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Come <a href="http://www.pinterest.com/debstar4/" target="_blank">see what we're pinning on Pinterest</a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-iN2SRIohT0Q/V9N6XY-viyI/AAAAAAAAQAk/w-lG3-nMWN86PtxDD2XemKjWEc60KX-rQCPcB/s1600/Up%2Bebook%2Bpinterest.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-iN2SRIohT0Q/V9N6XY-viyI/AAAAAAAAQAk/w-lG3-nMWN86PtxDD2XemKjWEc60KX-rQCPcB/s640/Up%2Bebook%2Bpinterest.png" width="448" /></a></div>
<br />
Here is our latest <b>kids educational activity</b> <b>ebook </b>and it's my favourite yet!<br />
<br />
Up! will take your child's love of <b>blocks and building </b>and take them far and wide across the curriculum. <br /><br />With 30+ projects across <b>math, literacy, science, art</b>, and <b>play</b>, Up! shows you how to support <b>passion-led, project-based, hands-on learning</b>. It will help your child make connections, go deeper in their understanding, and encourage their <b>questions and creativity</b>.<br /><br />Including inspiring ideas for block play, mobiles, rockets, airplanes, parachutes, building challenges and more. It also comes with <b>100 printables for use at home or in the classroom</b>. <div>
<br /><i>One of the great things about the activities presented in this eBook is that every activity has been tried, tested and approved by real children. The activities have been carefully chosen to offer a wide range of explorations, working across the curriculum to incorporate <b>play, imagination, math, literacy, science, sensory and art </b>and are written by an experienced collection of teacher and parenting bloggers.</i><br /><br />The sky’s the limit when you’re learning with Up!</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<b>Age guide</b>: 4 to 10 years.<br /><div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://bit.ly/2bYXLH3" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="90" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-s9PgI8XAShI/V34ASvStEuI/AAAAAAAAP0w/A46S0lHx2_sIQ0-DH-q-Jkx5_6TtkJ3mwCKgB/s200/buy-now.png" width="200" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://bit.ly/2bYXLH3" target="_blank">BUY NOW: $11.25 USD</a><br />
Regular Price: $14.99.<br />
(<i>25% off for the first 2 weeks of launch</i>)<br />
<a name='more'></a></div>
<br />
<h4>
<b><br /></b></h4>
<h4>
<b>What you’ll get in this book:</b></h4>
</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
- 30+ hands-on projects that invite your child to explore all things Up!<br /><br />- guidance on how to support your child’s interests, and how to help them expand their exploration and learning across the curriculum. This book is all about hands-on, project-based, passion-led learning.<br /><br />- multi-sensory activities for children aged 4 to 10<br /><br />- resources for parents and teachers, at home or in the classroom, with ideas for indoor and outdoor learning<br /><br />- material lists, step-by-step instructions, and full colour photographs of every activity<br /><br />- suggestions for variations and extensions so you can adapt the activities to suit your child<br /><br />- a wide range of learning activities including:<br /><ul>
<li>Ideas to set up and develop block play</li>
<li>Activities that use blocks for math lessons, with number games, measuring activities, and shape-building challenges</li>
<li>Construction play invitations with sensory elements and imaginary play, to develop language, spelling, and storytelling, and to promote co-operation and collaboration</li>
<li>Art projects on the theme of Up! including Caulder-inspired kinetic mobiles and upright weaving</li>
<li>Prompts that encourage creative thinking and innovation: exploring the possibilities of rocks, ice, marshmallows, customising blocks with new designs, and using huge cardboard boxes that can build structures bigger than you are</li>
<li>Science projects that invite your child to think about all the other things that go Up! including homemade rockets, airplanes, parachutes, pulleys and constellations</li>
</ul>
<br />- 100 printable pages including shape challenge cards, building challenge cards, and a set of world architecture prints.</div>
<div>
<br /><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-qRPcqcIA50M/V9N5wb1uOWI/AAAAAAAAQAg/wVoTLTvCwtUtEiqedzfA4ZSACTmZ6ItHwCPcB/s1600/cover%2Bsquare.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-qRPcqcIA50M/V9N5wb1uOWI/AAAAAAAAQAg/wVoTLTvCwtUtEiqedzfA4ZSACTmZ6ItHwCPcB/s640/cover%2Bsquare.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<a href="http://bit.ly/2bYXLH3" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="90" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-s9PgI8XAShI/V34ASvStEuI/AAAAAAAAP0w/A46S0lHx2_sIQ0-DH-q-Jkx5_6TtkJ3mwCKgB/s200/buy-now.png" width="200" /></a></div>
</div>
<ul></ul>
<h4>
Have a sneak peak at what's inside</h4>
<div>
<span style="color: #141823; font-family: "helvetica" , "arial" , "lucida grande" , "tahoma" , "verdana" , "arial" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 19.32px;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PaYyZ2yl4aw/V9N5uAQImKI/AAAAAAAAQAc/nZEX6RHyuhoL6gpQQOVujyCt8jcoELKrwCPcB/s1600/sample%2Bpage%2B1.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="454" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PaYyZ2yl4aw/V9N5uAQImKI/AAAAAAAAQAc/nZEX6RHyuhoL6gpQQOVujyCt8jcoELKrwCPcB/s640/sample%2Bpage%2B1.PNG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<br /></div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<h4>
How to buy</h4>
<h2 style="text-align: center;">
<ul style="font-size: medium; font-weight: normal; text-align: start;">
<li style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #141823; font-family: "helvetica" , "arial" , "lucida grande" , "tahoma" , "verdana" , "arial" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 19.32px;">This e-book is available for all no matter where you live in the world. Don't worry about the currency, paypal will sort it out automatically for you</span></span></li>
<li style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #141823; font-family: "helvetica" , "arial" , "lucida grande" , "tahoma" , "verdana" , "arial" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 19.32px;">Click on the blue "BUY NOW" buttons or click <a href="http://bit.ly/2bYXLH3" target="_blank">here</a> and follow the simple instructions to checkout</span></span></li>
<li style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #141823; font-family: "helvetica" , "arial" , "lucida grande" , "tahoma" , "verdana" , "arial" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 19.32px;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 14.4444px; line-height: 21.4667px;">You can buy it now, on any device, and then download it when you are ready. Depending on the apps you have installed and your operating system you might be able to go ahead and download the book on your mobile device, but if you have any doubts or problems, I recommend you use a computer to download the book and then share it to your mobile devices</span></span></span></li>
</ul>
</h2>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<br /><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dzuXdII1OS6sYrAw-tW1WQSv_bvaFnDJUpSk9xHJFNPPmKYMwoThyW2FVDl4cmiUvRVLpUFArZ6xu1WGITXnA' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<a href="http://bit.ly/2bYXLH3" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="90" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-s9PgI8XAShI/V34ASvStEuI/AAAAAAAAP0w/A46S0lHx2_sIQ0-DH-q-Jkx5_6TtkJ3mwCKgB/s200/buy-now.png" width="200" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
<h4>
<b><br /></b></h4>
<h4>
<b>Check out the other eBooks we have for sale:</b></h4>
<ul>
<li> <a href="http://www.learnwithplayathome.com/2014/05/activities-and-printable-resources-for.html" target="_blank">3-5 Playful Preschool</a> </li>
<li><a href="http://www.learnwithplayathome.com/2014/10/fizz-pop-bang-playful-science-and-maths.html" target="_blank">Fizz-Pop-Bang! Maths and Science E-book</a> </li>
<li><a href="http://www.learnwithplayathome.com/2016/07/abcs-and-123s-ebook-40-hands-on.html" target="_blank">ABCs and 123s E-book</a></li>
</ul>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.learnwithplayathome.com/2014/05/activities-and-printable-resources-for.html" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-g8xfqDNXJCk/U3gM-IP0DoI/AAAAAAAAKEA/EJPGAhLbGdU/s200/10346312_788030207887683_6604733623691846317_n.jpg" width="145" /></a> <a href="http://www.learnwithplayathome.com/2014/10/fizz-pop-bang-playful-science-and-maths.html" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gxjE9pAj6UQ/VWzxGuPIjKI/AAAAAAAANiU/kINb19D1wXg/s200/10391374_876962322327804_6385711039531323087_n.jpg" width="166" /></a><a href="http://www.learnwithplayathome.com/2016/07/abcs-and-123s-ebook-40-hands-on.html" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fpixh9O8Euw/V34ARw4pLPI/AAAAAAAAP0w/wjb1HdL0gsAKwvNzSaGJ290wznmglW6UgCPcB/s200/book%2Bcover%2B1.png" width="141" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
Don't forget that you can also see all the free activities we have on these subjects by clicking on the "Activity Category" buttons in the sidebar (or at the bottom of the page when on mobile). You can also <a href="http://www.learnwithplayathome.com/p/activities.html">click here</a> to see more of our free activities.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br />
Happy playing,</div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<div style="text-align: left;">
<b><span style="font-size: large;">Debs :)</span></b></div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
<i style="line-height: 22.08px;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "arial"; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">‘</span><span style="color: black; font-family: "arial"; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The Up! ebook is published and sold by Cathy James at NurtureStore.co.uk. Please direct any customer service queries regarding purchases of the ebook to </span><a href="mailto:support@nurturestore.co.uk" style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="color: #1155cc; font-family: "arial"; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">support@nurturestore.co.uk</span></a><span style="color: black; font-family: "arial"; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> or refer to the </span><a href="http://nurturestore.co.uk/frequently-asked-questions-re-our-ebooks" style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="color: #1155cc; font-family: "arial"; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">NurtureStore FAQ</span></a><span style="color: black; font-family: "arial"; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">.</span><span style="color: black; font-family: "arial"; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span><span style="font-family: "arial"; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The Up! ebook is protected under copyright © 2016. All rights reserved</span><span style="font-family: "arial"; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">.’</span></span></i></div>
<br />
<br /></div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="color: #0b5394;">Look where else we are. Are you following along? :)</span></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/learnwithplayathome" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vkHOFWBJK4o/UYyIgOBU9wI/AAAAAAAAGxo/RvuMjfHQ8L0/s1600/facebook.png" width="45" /></a><a href="http://pinterest.com/debstar4/" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Q4D1znEaQ1o/UYyIhLF1kZI/AAAAAAAAGyA/_ZtdQ6RKoXo/s1600/pinterest.png" width="45" /></a><a href="https://twitter.com/Learn_with_Play" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Bmqmpb9Xyjs/UYyIhMG5E3I/AAAAAAAAGyE/YAcBYCgfHSQ/s1600/twitter.png" width="45" /></a><a href="https://plus.google.com/u/0/113416249899539659575" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-44-9pseqqU4/UYyIgD7LORI/AAAAAAAAGxs/9dX88h__ySA/s1600/google%252B.png" width="45" /></a><a href="http://instagram.com/learnwithplayathome" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2fJM8P2Waec/UYyIgHDR4OI/AAAAAAAAGxw/p3Qh6jbkY3E/s1600/instagram.png" width="45" /></a><a href="mailto:learnwithplayathome@gmail.com" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jxw1Ykf18tU/UYyIgoSn7YI/AAAAAAAAGx0/h0Bdknuiv20/s1600/mail.png" width="45" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="color: #444444;">New Here? Subscribe to get all activities sent directly to you</span></b></div>
<form action="http://feedburner.google.com/fb/a/mailverify" method="post" onsubmit="window.open('http://feedburner.google.com/fb/a/mailverify?uri=LearnWithPlayHome', 'popupwindow', 'scrollbars=yes,width=550,height=520');return true" style="border: 1px solid rgb(204, 204, 204); padding: 3px; text-align: center;" target="popupwindow">
Enter your email address:<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<input name="email" style="width: 140px;" type="text" /><br /></div>
<input type="submit" value="Subscribe" /><br />
Delivered by <a href="http://feedburner.google.com/" target="_blank">FeedBurner</a></form>
</div>
Learn with Play at Homehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08323717740126935795noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6796821888191012398.post-73527420030876270882016-08-22T09:38:00.003+10:002022-01-19T14:51:52.595+11:00Living Life Happy<span style="font-size: medium;">I've been thinking a lot about life recently. About how I used to look at life, about how I look at life now, and about how I want to look at and live life. I think having kids can do that to you. I began to not only see life through my children's eyes, but also consider how my views on life could have a direct impact on their lives.<br />
<br />
Living with this awareness made me start to question my attitude and to look at life a little differently than I had in the past. Life is inevitable. Life has good times and life has bad times. There are also millions of ok times. And there's lots of amazing times, awe inspiring times, beautiful times, peaceful times, contented times and hilarious times. In the mix unfortunately there will also be terrible times. Heart wrenching times, gut aching times, physically painful times, stressful times, sad times and so much more.<br />
<br />
The thing is, we've only got one life, here and now, on this earth, as it is, with this particular group of humans around us. We don't know how many days we've got, just that we're here and that we feel.<br />
<br />
If I live every day for the weekend, I miss five out of seven days of my life, just being ok, or just surviving. If I live worrying about what might come, I miss enjoying what I have right now. And what am I showing my children? How does my attitude towards life effect their attitudes and in turn, their lives?<br />
<br />
Looking at the lives of others, in lands far removed has also changed how I see life. In India, on my recent trip with World Vision, I got to meet children, young adults and adults who, given some of their circumstances, in comparison to my circumstances, should, (by my original ideals of life), be wallowing in self pity for the unfair dealing of life they've been given. Except, that they weren't.<br />
<br />
They were living life. They were living life, making the most of what they had and they were doing it with a smile at the ready.<br />
<br />
</span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3BI3b_nw1lc/V7V1NmhUawI/AAAAAAAAP-A/C5pHo9Zjv-ob9gt02ELWWD7MWkL5z_4FwCPcB/s1600/P7210682.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3BI3b_nw1lc/V7V1NmhUawI/AAAAAAAAP-A/C5pHo9Zjv-ob9gt02ELWWD7MWkL5z_4FwCPcB/s640/P7210682.JPG" width="640" /></span></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-o3CfT02c16s/V7V1PNOuXdI/AAAAAAAAP-A/I_Bg8M6H7pUo_F9c4xUFFRDnLr1rFV3AwCPcB/s1600/P7210692.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-o3CfT02c16s/V7V1PNOuXdI/AAAAAAAAP-A/I_Bg8M6H7pUo_F9c4xUFFRDnLr1rFV3AwCPcB/s640/P7210692.JPG" width="640" /></span></a></div><span style="font-size: medium;">
Happiness that with the installation of these bio toilets by World Vision, in an urban slum in Chennai, they now have access to be able to perform normal human bodily functions in safety, privacy and with dignity. Sixty families who are so happy that they now have something I've always taken for granted. (And grumbled about should I have to wait a minute.)<br />
</span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9gMsWzjp44I/V7V1Vveo3lI/AAAAAAAAP-A/6SDzNpKFGbQroLQPbMWaT-8i71aWIGaWACPcB/s1600/school%2Bindia.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9gMsWzjp44I/V7V1Vveo3lI/AAAAAAAAP-A/6SDzNpKFGbQroLQPbMWaT-8i71aWIGaWACPcB/s640/school%2Bindia.png" width="640" /></span></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-348ruxkfEd0/V7V1QMmI3cI/AAAAAAAAP-A/u4JEcypsquk5c38aVY3WVCf8h4aVSqaWwCPcB/s1600/P7220845.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-348ruxkfEd0/V7V1QMmI3cI/AAAAAAAAP-A/u4JEcypsquk5c38aVY3WVCf8h4aVSqaWwCPcB/s640/P7220845.JPG" width="640" /></span></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Z4DBmuLtD6w/V7V1Lp8qGyI/AAAAAAAAP-A/R62f9DFY8nk5otMkXwXNJxq93b7vMKwIACPcB/s1600/IMG_2965.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Z4DBmuLtD6w/V7V1Lp8qGyI/AAAAAAAAP-A/R62f9DFY8nk5otMkXwXNJxq93b7vMKwIACPcB/s640/IMG_2965.JPG" width="640" /></span></a></div><span style="font-size: medium;">
Happiness that they may go to school, in an environment that thanks to the people who sponsor a child through World Vision, is covered in bright, inspiring and educational paintings, as well as having availability to fresh, clean drinking water.<br />
</span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-lm3ONnTG16c/V7V1bruy0NI/AAAAAAAAP-A/NggQDRJoQvAC0ZaX7lbmGpSz6PzZIvoCwCPcB/s1600/P7220973.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-lm3ONnTG16c/V7V1bruy0NI/AAAAAAAAP-A/NggQDRJoQvAC0ZaX7lbmGpSz6PzZIvoCwCPcB/s640/P7220973.JPG" width="640" /></span></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-TL9UaIT1i5E/V7V1ajnJSmI/AAAAAAAAP-A/mEYaiCE_Z24KmrACJjF6HQUekUDZHWS6gCPcB/s1600/20160722_155225.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-TL9UaIT1i5E/V7V1ajnJSmI/AAAAAAAAP-A/mEYaiCE_Z24KmrACJjF6HQUekUDZHWS6gCPcB/s640/20160722_155225.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div><span style="font-size: medium;">
Happiness that thanks to iron boxes and education provided by World Vision, they may run businesses that allow them to feed and clothe and educate their children.<br />
</span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Zf1_LVzXGFQ/V7V1RrCHKII/AAAAAAAAP-A/Arf_6tZai_ANz7wGMN0-6bWgv-sN0ncZQCPcB/s1600/P7220882.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Zf1_LVzXGFQ/V7V1RrCHKII/AAAAAAAAP-A/Arf_6tZai_ANz7wGMN0-6bWgv-sN0ncZQCPcB/s1600/P7220882.JPG" /></span></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-glfNN0adlDI/V7V1S0-ndLI/AAAAAAAAP-A/rSpui7PdlEU1OS6CYvYwknXpDdL5NrGuACPcB/s1600/P7220925.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-glfNN0adlDI/V7V1S0-ndLI/AAAAAAAAP-A/rSpui7PdlEU1OS6CYvYwknXpDdL5NrGuACPcB/s640/P7220925.JPG" width="640" /></span></a></div><span style="font-size: medium;">
Happiness that thanks to education and support by World Vision, these women no longer need to borrow money from high interest money lenders, keeping them in a cycle of debt, as they now have their own support groups in one another where they can invest and borrow from the group safely and learn to save for the future.<br />
<br />
Witnessing so much joy for just the most basic things in life definitely made me reconsider how I find my joy. Happiness is infectious and more than living a "good" life, filled only with "good" moments, I want to live a happy life, filled with as much joy as I can cram in. Not only do I want happiness, but I want to be able to find it wherever possible. I want to find it in the boring times and to try to look for it when things are bad. I want to lead by example for my children, and help them to find happiness in the little things. To appreciate what they have. To love and be loved. To help others. To live the best lives that they can, and I think so much of that has to do with how we choose to look at life.<br />
</span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-SlyQL5_c2ic/V7V3H6LTXII/AAAAAAAAP-E/AvxhdlMs-iUD82ya3BNQ7SlmjPhd1bYWQCPcB/s1600/12039630_10156181933325604_4351701958922519874_n.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-SlyQL5_c2ic/V7V3H6LTXII/AAAAAAAAP-E/AvxhdlMs-iUD82ya3BNQ7SlmjPhd1bYWQCPcB/s640/12039630_10156181933325604_4351701958922519874_n.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div><span style="font-size: medium;">
So, what makes me happy? There are so many things we can do! Some of my favourites, as cliche as they may be are.<br />
<br />
<b>Happy Things</b><br />
</span><ul>
<li><span style="font-size: medium;">reading with your kids</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: medium;"><a href="https://sponsor.worldvision.com.au/#!/sponsor-a-child" target="_blank">sponsoring a child</a> and providing a better life and happiness for others </span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: medium;">going to the beach and feeling the sand on your toes as you watch the waves rolling in and out</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: medium;">telling someone you love them </span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: medium;">feeling the wind on your face </span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: medium;">sipping a hot cup of coffee </span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: medium;">listening to music and singing along at the top of your voice</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: medium;">getting into bed with fresh sheets </span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: medium;">catching up with a friend you've not seen in ages </span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: medium;">standing barefoot on freshly mowed grass </span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: medium;">cuddling</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: medium;">doing a favour for someone</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: medium;">the smell of the earth after the rain</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: medium;">starting a brand new notebook</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: medium;">walking a dog</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: medium;">going to the zoo</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: medium;">anything to do with animals actually</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: medium;">feeling weightless in a pool</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: medium;">having a big drink of water when you're really thirsty</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: medium;">loving someone</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: medium;">being loved</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: medium;">so many foods, <i>I can't help it, some foods are just happiness and if I break it down the list will be too long</i></span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: medium;">secretly watching your kids playing make believe</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: medium;">drawing with a brand new set of markers</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: medium;">watching tv you love</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: medium;">hearing the rain on your roof while tucked up in bed</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: medium;">going through a car wash</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: medium;">realising it's only Saturday when you think it's Sunday</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: medium;">collecting pebbles and building them as tall as you can</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: medium;">sitting outside late at night in complete silence with no sounds around</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: medium;">reorganising something</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: medium;">reading a book</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: medium;">thinking about everything you have</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: medium;">thinking about the people you love</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: medium;">writing a proper letter and mailing it, with a stamp and everything</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: medium;">helping out others</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: medium;">smiling</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: medium;">calling your mum or best friend</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: medium;">exercising</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: medium;">camping</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: medium;">having a break from technology</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: medium;">getting outside</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: medium;">trying something new</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: medium;">learning a new skill</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: medium;">swinging on a swing</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: medium;">being kind </span></li>
</ul>
<div>
<span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div>
<div><span style="font-size: medium;">
Ok, this could go on forever. I really could just keep writing but I think that's enough for now. What have I missed? What makes you happy?</span></div>
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<div style="text-align: left;">
Happy happiness,</div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<div style="text-align: left;">
<b><span style="font-size: large;">Debs :)</span></b></div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></b>
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="color: #0b5394;">Look where else we are. Are you following along? :)</span></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/learnwithplayathome" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vkHOFWBJK4o/UYyIgOBU9wI/AAAAAAAAGxo/RvuMjfHQ8L0/s1600/facebook.png" width="45" /></a><a href="http://pinterest.com/debstar4/" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Q4D1znEaQ1o/UYyIhLF1kZI/AAAAAAAAGyA/_ZtdQ6RKoXo/s1600/pinterest.png" width="45" /></a><a href="https://twitter.com/Learn_with_Play" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Bmqmpb9Xyjs/UYyIhMG5E3I/AAAAAAAAGyE/YAcBYCgfHSQ/s1600/twitter.png" width="45" /></a><a href="https://plus.google.com/u/0/113416249899539659575" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-44-9pseqqU4/UYyIgD7LORI/AAAAAAAAGxs/9dX88h__ySA/s1600/google%252B.png" width="45" /></a><a href="http://instagram.com/learnwithplayathome" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2fJM8P2Waec/UYyIgHDR4OI/AAAAAAAAGxw/p3Qh6jbkY3E/s1600/instagram.png" width="45" /></a><a href="mailto:learnwithplayathome@gmail.com" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jxw1Ykf18tU/UYyIgoSn7YI/AAAAAAAAGx0/h0Bdknuiv20/s1600/mail.png" width="45" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="color: #444444;">New Here? Subscribe to get all activities sent directly to you</span></b></div>
<form action="http://feedburner.google.com/fb/a/mailverify" method="post" onsubmit="window.open('http://feedburner.google.com/fb/a/mailverify?uri=LearnWithPlayHome', 'popupwindow', 'scrollbars=yes,width=550,height=520');return true" style="border: 1px solid rgb(204, 204, 204); padding: 3px; text-align: center;" target="popupwindow">
Enter your email address:<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<input name="email" style="width: 140px;" type="text" /><br /></div>
<input name="uri" type="hidden" value="LearnWithPlayHome" /><input name="loc" type="hidden" value="en_US" /><input type="submit" value="Subscribe" /><br />
Delivered by <a href="http://feedburner.google.com/" target="_blank">FeedBurner</a></form>
Learn with Play at Homehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08323717740126935795noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6796821888191012398.post-61706721178502461482016-08-10T14:59:00.002+10:002022-06-20T10:31:28.509+10:0010 free Printable Father's Day Questionnaires for Kids to complete<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-NdMtpHKIt4g/V6qv8NdgZNI/AAAAAAAAP7U/9mZDapj8_BwBUUCG_nOYkzMWC-haGXpoACPcB/s1600/10%2BFree%2BPrintable%2BFathers%2BDay%2BQuestionnaires.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-NdMtpHKIt4g/V6qv8NdgZNI/AAAAAAAAP7U/9mZDapj8_BwBUUCG_nOYkzMWC-haGXpoACPcB/s640/10%2BFree%2BPrintable%2BFathers%2BDay%2BQuestionnaires.png" width="448" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></div>
More than socks, jocks and golf tees, dads just love their kids! </span><div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;">I've asked a number of dads what it is that they'd like for Father's Day and it turns out that anything that has to do with <b>spending time together</b> or something <b>personalised from the heart</b>, is generally going to be best received by Dad this <b>Father's Day.</b><br />
<br /><br />
A sweet, frugal and often amusing gift is a <b>personalised survey, interview or writing prompt about Dad</b>, completed by the kids. </span><div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><b><br /></b></span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><b><br /></b></span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><b>Fill-in-the-blanks</b> can be a lovely way to record children's thoughts, knowledge and feelings about Dad each year and can be laminated or photographed to preserve for years to come. </span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;">I, of course, also love the added <b>literacy</b> practice for kids and that they can be a great thought starter for children who need some inspiration to help them think of what to write.<br />
<br /><br />Below are a couple of different designs that I have made that you are welcome to download and use. I have also compiled 8 other great versions from around the web.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;">The pictures below show the 2016 Father's Day Survey version that I originally made, however the ones I have available for you to download <i>have no year printed on them</i> (there is a blank space so that you can fill in the year) so <u>you can use them for any year.</u><br /></span><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /><br />
<b>Download your free copies of the printable Father's Day Surveys below by clicking on the links below the picture:</b><br />
<b><br /></b>
<br />
</span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-DKi4vy5nclI/V6qv3bEJ_dI/AAAAAAAAP7Y/wij4QqY9eEkDNy4HK38_vz86PSshVlgpgCPcB/s1600/fathers%2Bfay%2Bprintable%2Bquestionnaires.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><img border="0" height="500" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-DKi4vy5nclI/V6qv3bEJ_dI/AAAAAAAAP7Y/wij4QqY9eEkDNy4HK38_vz86PSshVlgpgCPcB/s640/fathers%2Bfay%2Bprintable%2Bquestionnaires.png" width="640" /></span></a></div>
<span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /><br />
<br />
<a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B2UEah6YmII6V1dvamhhM1ZwZkE/view?usp=sharing&resourcekey=0-QzeU1gC1RDT410W7dsETRw" target="_blank">Download - My Dad - The Low-Down any year</a><br /><br />
<br />
<a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B2UEah6YmII6Q1hVamlxdkp1REE/view?usp=sharing&resourcekey=0-MRnEjjT5IelfP77zUJPW6A" target="_blank">Download - My Rad Dad any year</a><br />
<br />
</span><h3><span style="font-family: verdana;">
Here are 8 other fun free printable Father's Day surveys I've found around the net: </span></h3><div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;">I searched the web quite a bit (as you probably have too) for some good free printable Father's Day Interview Sheets and after clicking through many, I've compiled the best 8 that I could find. </span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></div>
<span style="font-family: verdana;"><i>Click the links below the pictures to go to the downloads.</i></span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><i><br /></i>
<br />
</span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lwXT_fOcyJg/V6qv4eUsu_I/AAAAAAAAP7M/RlllcBKdsZUIsi8XuuOwnjjO1SjFyONfgCPcB/s1600/fathers%2Bday%2Binterviews%2B1%2Bto%2B4.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><img border="0" height="500" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lwXT_fOcyJg/V6qv4eUsu_I/AAAAAAAAP7M/RlllcBKdsZUIsi8XuuOwnjjO1SjFyONfgCPcB/s640/fathers%2Bday%2Binterviews%2B1%2Bto%2B4.png" width="640" /></span></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>
<span style="font-family: verdana;"><br />
<b>1)</b> <a href="http://beafunmum.com/2015/08/dear-dad-letter/" target="_blank">Dear Dad Letter</a> <i>from Be a Fun Mum</i></span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><i><br /></i>
<br />
<b>2)</b> <a href="http://www.makeoversandmotherhood.com/fathers-day-interview-sheets-printable/" target="_blank">Father's Day Interview Sheets</a> <i>from Makeovers and Motherhood </i><span style="font-size: x-small;">(a few different designs available plus one for Grandfathers)</span></span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><br /></span>
<br />
<b>3)</b> <a href="http://loveandmarriageblog.com/me-and-my-dad-printable/" target="_blank">Me and My Dad Father's Day Printable</a> <i>from Love and Marriage Blog</i></span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><i><br /></i>
<i><br /></i>
<b>4)</b> <a href="http://www.sunnydayfamily.com/2016/05/free-printable-fathers-day-gift.html" target="_blank">Father's Day Printable (for Grandpa too)</a> <i>from Sunny Day Family</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<br /><br />
</span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5O99EyOP7nI/V6qv5vNbcoI/AAAAAAAAP7Q/N4ajIKmNjWIwMNUWxYxQNzuTHG360MEIQCPcB/s1600/fathers%2Bday%2Binterviews%2B5%2Bto%2B8.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><img border="0" height="500" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5O99EyOP7nI/V6qv5vNbcoI/AAAAAAAAP7Q/N4ajIKmNjWIwMNUWxYxQNzuTHG360MEIQCPcB/s640/fathers%2Bday%2Binterviews%2B5%2Bto%2B8.png" width="640" /></span></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>
<span style="font-family: verdana;"><i><br /></i>
<b>5)</b> <a href="http://www.mamamiss.com/2013/06/07/guest-post-fathers-day-questionnaire/" target="_blank">All about my Daddy Father's Day Questionnaire</a> <i>from Mamma Miss</i></span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><i><br /></i>
<br />
<b>6)</b> <a href="http://www.yourmodernfamily.com/fathers-day-questions-free-printable/" target="_blank">I love my Dad Printable Interview</a> <i>from Your Modern Family</i></span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><i><br /></i>
<br />
<b>7)</b> <a href="http://www.sunshineandhurricanes.com/dad-printable-questionnaire/" target="_blank">Dad Printable Questionnaire</a> <i>from Sunshine and Hurricanes</i></span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><i><br /></i>
<br />
<b>8)</b> <a href="http://www.simplefunforkids.com/my-daddy-and-i-fathers-day-survey-printable.html/" target="_blank">My Daddy and I Father's Day Survey Printable</a> <i>from Simple Fun for Kids</i><br />
<br />
<br /><br /><br />I hope that you enjoy using these printable interview sheets / questionnaires with your children or students.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: verdana;">I'm sure the dads will love them!<br /><br /><br />
<b>For more DIY Father's Day ideas, see here:</b><br />
<br />
</span><ul>
<li><a href="http://www.learnwithplayathome.com/2013/06/6-simple-kid-made-fathers-day-gift-ideas.html" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: verdana;">6 Kid-made Father's Day Gift Ideas</span></a><br /><br /></li>
<li><a href="http://www.marthastewart.com/274629/fathers-day-crafts-for-kids" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: verdana;">Father's Day Crafts for Kids</span></a><br /><br /></li>
<li><a href="http://diyready.com/21-diy-fathers-day-cards/" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: verdana;">21 DIY Father's Day Card Ideas</span></a><br /><br /></li>
<li><a href="http://www.kiddycharts.com/printables/fathers-day-posters/" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: verdana;">Printable Father's Day posters</span></a></li>
</ul>
<span style="font-family: verdana;"><div><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></div><br />
<br />
</span><div style="text-align: center;">
<div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: verdana;">
Happy playing,</span></div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<div style="text-align: left;">
<b><span style="font-family: verdana; font-size: large;">Debs :)</span></b></div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="color: #0b5394;">Look where else we are. Are you following along? :)</span></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/learnwithplayathome" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vkHOFWBJK4o/UYyIgOBU9wI/AAAAAAAAGxo/RvuMjfHQ8L0/s1600/facebook.png" width="45" /></a><a href="http://pinterest.com/debstar4/" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Q4D1znEaQ1o/UYyIhLF1kZI/AAAAAAAAGyA/_ZtdQ6RKoXo/s1600/pinterest.png" width="45" /></a><a href="https://twitter.com/Learn_with_Play" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Bmqmpb9Xyjs/UYyIhMG5E3I/AAAAAAAAGyE/YAcBYCgfHSQ/s1600/twitter.png" width="45" /></a><a href="https://plus.google.com/u/0/113416249899539659575" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-44-9pseqqU4/UYyIgD7LORI/AAAAAAAAGxs/9dX88h__ySA/s1600/google%252B.png" width="45" /></a><a href="http://instagram.com/learnwithplayathome" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2fJM8P2Waec/UYyIgHDR4OI/AAAAAAAAGxw/p3Qh6jbkY3E/s1600/instagram.png" width="45" /></a><a href="mailto:learnwithplayathome@gmail.com" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jxw1Ykf18tU/UYyIgoSn7YI/AAAAAAAAGx0/h0Bdknuiv20/s1600/mail.png" width="45" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;"><br /><br /></div>
</div></div>Learn with Play at Homehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08323717740126935795noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6796821888191012398.post-62046686683369655092016-08-03T13:52:00.000+10:002016-08-03T14:05:34.398+10:00Invitation to Play. Simple Superhero Slime<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-mI2rLxDkQ8E/V6E06TY6hbI/AAAAAAAAP6o/U8RUEZkk6dIOTKJgG9kMFLpuLpoH2jw1ACPcB/s640/Invitation%2Bto%2BPlay%2BSuperhero%2BSlime.jpg" width="480" /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b>Sensory Play</b> is one of the few activities that I know will entertain my kids for quite a long period of time. The quicker and easier the set-up for me, the better. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
For today's activity, rather than make up some <b>slime</b> for my son to play with, I gave him the two basic ingredients, popped out a selection of his little <b>superhero figurines</b> and let him make it for himself. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
This not only means less work for me, but more importantly, it means that he is <b>experimenting and learning a range of skills and concepts through experiencing for himself.</b></div>
<a name='more'></a><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<img border="0" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-PkYPgRn8Zrw/V6E07Q_nTSI/AAAAAAAAP6o/DtXIkpUMeRMpvHit8M_wmyn-W6Ii5AN0wCPcB/s640/P7110350.JPG" width="640" /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b>Materials:</b></div>
<ul>
<li>Large bowl with Cornflour</li>
<li>Jug of Coloured Water</li>
<li>Plastic figurines</li>
<li>Spoon </li>
</ul>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
This is not an activity that you need to precisely measure out specific amounts of the ingredients in order to have success. Part of the experimenting and learning process is determining how much is needed to make the desired consistency of slime. If you want more of an exact type recipe, check out how we make our <a href="http://www.learnwithplayathome.com/2013/08/cornflour-slime-how-to-make-and-what.html" target="_blank">cornflour slime recipe</a> and learn more about viscosity and the science behind this cool substance.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-x5x5o3Nb1dw/V6E08GDQz-I/AAAAAAAAP6o/3oydBK8rdjQXzNIhFOW7RpgETpSlp_b8wCPcB/s640/P7110355.JPG" width="640" /></div>
As we've made <a href="http://www.learnwithplayathome.com/2013/08/cornflour-slime-how-to-make-and-what.html" target="_blank">cornflour slime</a> at our house before, I reminded my son that to make his slime, adding the water to the cornflour needed to be a <i>gradual</i> thing. Adding in all the water in one go might make it too liquid and I didn't have an unlimited amount of cornflour to fix it.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Bubq3fx2XoY/V6E09VNeVAI/AAAAAAAAP6o/DdcJ3OAM0p0k-f_I-4MDWCAVDs78H-blgCPcB/s640/P7110366.JPG" width="640" /></div>
For children new to making slime, it's important that you either instruct them to add the water gradually, stirring the mixture between each new addition so that they are able to make it the desired consistency, or, you have a lot of cornflour (cornstarch) on hand so that they are able to add extra cornflour as needed if they overdo it with the water. This is all part of the learning process and a great time to talk and learn about solids and liquids.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VBJ1I906MPw/V6E0-TRt3HI/AAAAAAAAP6o/eOLm8_GmMJ8E-FoLn4JhNSqc0GQp-G8WwCPcB/s640/P7110367.JPG" width="640" /> </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-52QbLJY1svQ/V6E0_eLXE1I/AAAAAAAAP6o/Chux_-OOgLsVRc7u4cJZUIMwO7IRObPgQCPcB/s640/P7110378.JPG" width="640" /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Once your child is happy with their slime and they have reached the desired <b>viscosity</b> (which corresponds to "thickness" in liquids), it's time to add their superhero characters.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ro9azyRTS6g/V6E1ABMoT5I/AAAAAAAAP6o/ZTM7SF97WwECBhgi8MqQUwUloQATY2l-gCPcB/s640/P7110381.JPG" width="640" /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-nXF4qU2WBJM/V6E1A_o2UBI/AAAAAAAAP6o/adXssPC65Q8z3RcgDStPkdGEbihPOrZxQCPcB/s640/P7110385.JPG" width="640" /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
One of the awesome things that I love about <b>sensory play</b> (be it with slime, <a href="http://www.learnwithplayathome.com/2013/09/toddler-inside-water-play-activity.html">water,</a> <a href="http://www.learnwithplayathome.com/2014/05/play-and-learn-with-kinetic-sand.html">sand</a>, <a href="http://www.learnwithplayathome.com/2013/11/8-creative-playdough-ideas-for-kids.html">playdough</a> etc.) is that often the play ends up involving <b>imaginary play</b> and lots of <b>dialogue</b>, fabulous for <b>creativity</b> and <b>language development.</b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-LKIcEITmO9Q/V6E1D3aO2KI/AAAAAAAAP6o/BiK8DFeOWv4UFNOp53NMKDiA5r0vKygogCPcB/s640/P7120389.JPG" width="640" /></div>
And then there comes a time when they are done playing with the characters in the slime, but don't worry, the play is far from over! Now is the time to introduce a <b>tub of clean water</b> (can be warm water on cold days, perfect for dissolving the slime) so that the kids can clean up after themselves.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-w3HFLETDySk/V6E1EqBn2BI/AAAAAAAAP6o/tuDcFNPHiNQM3exhr9rGuzGl60TbK8bnQCPcB/s640/P7120393.JPG" width="640" /></div>
Turn it into a bit of a game with reluctant children by enthusiastically adding voices and dialogue. "<i>Argh, Captain America is covered in the poisonous green lava! Who or what can save him now? SPLASH!!! Lucky there's this fresh water pond, perfect for neutralising the lava and dissolving it from his person</i>"<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-NEq3djVM3Rk/V6E1GMH57uI/AAAAAAAAP6o/XpWxgI5rA3AFdYePnAxEB0i3xEXfYPu4wCPcB/s640/P7120398.JPG" width="640" /></div>
Provide children with a little face washer to help them clean off their toys, and a clean tea towel or hand towel for them to pat their figurines dry, once clean. The younger the child, the more enthusiastic they will probably be about the clean-up part!<br />
<br />
<br />
<div>
<b>Handy Tips:</b></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
- <b>Simplify</b> this activity with younger kids by sticking close by so that you can aid your child with adding the water in gradually, stirring through all the flour and can talk with them about the process they are going through.<br />
<br />
- <b>Extend</b> this activity for older children by having extra cornflour on hand, and allowing them to decide the quantities of each to mix. They can also add the colour to the water themselves. Some correction may be needed in order for them to reach the desired consistency, so encouraging them to keep both extra flour and water on the side to add as needed, is a good move. For a class, they can try writing up the directions of how they made their slime as well as recording any observations they make about it's characteristics. They can also research more about why cornflour slime acts the way it does and try some of the extra experiments <a href="http://www.bbc.co.uk/science/0/22880407" target="_blank">here</a>.<br />
<br />
- This activity is great for practicing <b>essential life skills</b> such as controlled pouring, consistent mixing (getting everything stirred through evenly, keeping the mixture in the bowl), etc. <b>Hand-eye coordination, fine motor skills</b> and <b>concentration</b> are required and these things get better and better with more practice and with time.<br />
<br />
- <b>Go easy</b> with the food colouring or liquid watercolour that you use to colour your water with. A couple of drops is plenty if you'd prefer to colour the slime and not your hands.<br />
<br />
- Activities like this are great for <b>expanding vocabulary</b> so be sure to use the appropriate language that goes along with this activity, such as, "consistency, thickness, fluidity, solid, liquid, viscosity, flow, etc."</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
- <b>Cleaning up</b>. If you're really concerned about mess, try this activity outside or in a bathtub, otherwise, you will find that any little droplets that end up on the floor or table, dry out very quickly and can be easily swept or vacuumed up. We did ours on a covered table, on a tray, over a tiled floor and found there was very little to be cleaned up.<br />
<br />
- You can <b>keep your cornflour slime</b>, covered in the fridge for a couple of days without it going bad. You may need to add some more water and give it a good stir to reinvigorate it!</div>
<br />
- <b>More fun sensory play recipes and ideas:</b><br />
<ul>
<li><a href="http://www.learnwithplayathome.com/2014/06/how-to-make-rainbow-soap-slime.html" target="_blank">How to make rainbow Soap Slime</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.learnwithplayathome.com/2015/04/dinosaurs-in-sticky-mud-sensory-play.html" target="_blank">Dinosaurs in Sticky Mud</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.learnwithplayathome.com/2013/11/8-creative-playdough-ideas-for-kids.html" target="_blank">8 creative Playdough play ideas</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.learnwithplayathome.com/2012/08/sensory-coloured-salt-how-to-make-and.html" target="_blank">Sensory coloured Salt play ideas</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.learnwithplayathome.com/2014/04/10-simple-sensory-play-ideas.html" target="_blank">10 simple Sensory Play ideas</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.learnwithplayathome.com/2013/02/100-science-activities-from-play-group.html" target="_blank">100 fun Science Activities for kids</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.learnwithplayathome.com/2013/10/8-toddler-play-ideas-invitations-to-play.html" target="_blank">8 Toddler Invitations to Play</a></li>
</ul>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<div style="text-align: left;">
Happy playing,</div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<div style="text-align: left;">
<b><span style="font-size: large;">Debs :)</span></b></div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></b>
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="color: #0b5394;">Look where else we are. Are you following along? :)</span></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/learnwithplayathome" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vkHOFWBJK4o/UYyIgOBU9wI/AAAAAAAAGxo/RvuMjfHQ8L0/s1600/facebook.png" width="45" /></a><a href="http://pinterest.com/debstar4/" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Q4D1znEaQ1o/UYyIhLF1kZI/AAAAAAAAGyA/_ZtdQ6RKoXo/s1600/pinterest.png" width="45" /></a><a href="https://twitter.com/Learn_with_Play" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Bmqmpb9Xyjs/UYyIhMG5E3I/AAAAAAAAGyE/YAcBYCgfHSQ/s1600/twitter.png" width="45" /></a><a href="https://plus.google.com/u/0/113416249899539659575" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-44-9pseqqU4/UYyIgD7LORI/AAAAAAAAGxs/9dX88h__ySA/s1600/google%252B.png" width="45" /></a><a href="http://instagram.com/learnwithplayathome" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2fJM8P2Waec/UYyIgHDR4OI/AAAAAAAAGxw/p3Qh6jbkY3E/s1600/instagram.png" width="45" /></a><a href="mailto:learnwithplayathome@gmail.com" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jxw1Ykf18tU/UYyIgoSn7YI/AAAAAAAAGx0/h0Bdknuiv20/s1600/mail.png" width="45" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="color: #444444;">New Here? Subscribe to get all activities sent directly to you</span></b></div>
<form action="http://feedburner.google.com/fb/a/mailverify" method="post" onsubmit="window.open('http://feedburner.google.com/fb/a/mailverify?uri=LearnWithPlayHome', 'popupwindow', 'scrollbars=yes,width=550,height=520');return true" style="border: 1px solid #ccc; padding: 3px; text-align: center;" target="popupwindow">
Enter your email address:<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<input name="email" style="width: 140px;" type="text" /><br /></div>
<input name="uri" type="hidden" value="LearnWithPlayHome" /><input name="loc" type="hidden" value="en_US" /><input type="submit" value="Subscribe" /><br />
Delivered by <a href="http://feedburner.google.com/" target="_blank">FeedBurner</a></form>
Learn with Play at Homehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08323717740126935795noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6796821888191012398.post-30622270157694807612016-07-23T08:30:00.000+10:002016-07-28T15:50:39.680+10:00Dear Kids, Mummy's going to India. Part 3Dear Kids, before I came to India and saw first hand the work that <b>World Vision</b> is doing to impact lives and empower people and communities, I didn't actually realise that they were involved in so much. I knew about certain aspects of their programs, such as helping provide clean <b>water, food</b> and assisting children to get an <b>education</b>, but I didn't know that in each and every area that World Vision have a presence, issues are assessed and programs are developed, based entirely on the exact needs of the children and community.<br />
<br />
The first half of my journey was in a rural area, where I've already shown you <a href="http://www.learnwithplayathome.com/2016/07/dear-kids-mummys-going-to-india-part-2.html">a colourful little school and it's Nutrition Garden</a>, that is the pride and joy of the village. Children there now have access to clean, fresh drinking water and they also have enough water now to grow their garden. But what other types of projects are World Vision implementing in this area?<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-yj591117-R4/V5EPtWCGc0I/AAAAAAAAP4U/rH4j73R7UQU96233V9tZxsAziChlAqeZACKgB/s1600/Photo%2B1-21.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-yj591117-R4/V5EPtWCGc0I/AAAAAAAAP4U/rH4j73R7UQU96233V9tZxsAziChlAqeZACKgB/s640/Photo%2B1-21.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo by Theodore Sam Paul</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<a name='more'></a>Here, in this village of around 120 families, World Vision asked the children and families of the sponsor children, what issue was effecting them the most, and were told that they wanted their fathers and husbands to stop drinking alcohol. Many had started drinking when they were young labourers and were addicted. Instead of providing for their families, they would spend the money on alcohol instead.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-VrELXrAEOzE/V5EPug7koBI/AAAAAAAAP4Y/N7BB6dkbBWUutrDtnx4AFXdyrS4qKNhBgCKgB/s640/P7180234.JPG" width="640" /></div>
Whole families got up and took it in turns to tell us about the impact that alcohol addiction had on them and told tales of hiding money, domestic violence, fear, going hungry and poor health. A young girl (who is a <a href="https://www.worldvision.com.au/child-sponsorship-what-is-it-all-about" target="_blank">sponsor child</a>) bravely told us of life before World Vision helped her dad, and her <b>happiness</b> that they now have food to eat and can feel safe in their own homes, thanks to the Rehabilitation program that World Vision convinced her father to be part of.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cwNX1x3uyhU/V5EPwvn7kSI/AAAAAAAAP4I/lLa48LJ8DHgxJEkmwcR0uxyOF0aX8qZsACKgB/s640/P7180244.JPG" width="640" /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Their stories, whilst confronting at the start to listen to, were filled with joy and hope as they spoke of their victories and how long they'd been sober and just how much things had changed. The thing that really stuck me though, was that unlike many people battling addiction, these individuals were doing it together as a community, and were supporting one another and making themselves accountable. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
And slowly, but surely, word spreads and more people who have seen these men turn around their lives for their families, approach World Vision to ask to help them fight this illness as well. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
So far 35 addicts from various villages, including 10 from this village, have successfully completed the treatment (which includes travelling a long distance away for a 10 day de-addiction program, followed up by medicine and visits from World Vision workers). There's obviously a lot more that goes into it, from applying, to being able to show commitment, to partial loans and so on, but what you need to know, is that change is happening, it's oh, so positive, and it's all for the better of the children.</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_Zv5qrbLIns/V5GZsa2AzBI/AAAAAAAAP5Y/Q7u2hEUsXHAZsBIPQlgvaVuWNjVRleH4QCKgB/s1600/Photo%2B1-24.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_Zv5qrbLIns/V5GZsa2AzBI/AAAAAAAAP5Y/Q7u2hEUsXHAZsBIPQlgvaVuWNjVRleH4QCKgB/s640/Photo%2B1-24.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo by Theodore Sam Paul</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
These beautiful people, who survive on around $10 a day, just LOVE World Vision and what they have done for their families. It was so evident. They insisted on presenting us with beautiful shawls and expensive fruit that they had pooled together and purchased. It was truly humbling.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-UKn1gQ7eais/V5EPzxkYruI/AAAAAAAAP4I/lT26xTaNlJwtU8FQKNHt83unELR7b_UFwCKgB/s640/P7180265.JPG" width="640" /></div>
And then, for something completely different, in this village we got to visit the <b>Children's Parliament</b> that World Vision set up. These children were taught about politics and saving and record keeping and democracy. It was just incredible!<br />
<br />
The Children's Parliament was started to develop leadership skills amongst the children community and the children take on different responsibilities (ie. President, Health Minister, Secretary, Treasurer, etc.), discuss various issues relating to them and their village and try to find a solution together.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-sb4YXs7SyH8/V5EP1AJIXoI/AAAAAAAAP4I/L3hce7-YF0AA3FAjMbtCy_xXT3_rUHUuwCKgB/s640/P7180267.JPG" width="640" /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
They were pretty excited to see us.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-iJcKnqIe0fo/V5EP4akZU9I/AAAAAAAAP4I/hjy3IyAIFNQW7W7ZJjXvuzTGOoEDSl09QCKgB/s640/P7180280.JPG" width="640" /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0loQ0Hmc9mY/V5EP7YFJXwI/AAAAAAAAP4I/NlNTZP-A_YESd8FaS4Fk4R_zz0G6S7V7gCKgB/s640/P7180287.JPG" width="640" /> </div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-j4xyJZi5jF4/V5EP-2Ry36I/AAAAAAAAP4I/bWaCXZ3I3uUNsLB3D53xfgGhC_3H2IUOgCKgB/s1600/Photo%2B1-26.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-j4xyJZi5jF4/V5EP-2Ry36I/AAAAAAAAP4I/bWaCXZ3I3uUNsLB3D53xfgGhC_3H2IUOgCKgB/s640/Photo%2B1-26.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo by Theodore Sam Paul</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
At their last weekly meeting, guess what the topic of conversation was about? Yep, Us! They decided that for our visit they would demonstrate how they hold their meetings and organised to put on a cultural dance show for us. It was just brilliant! You can see a little video I shared of them dancing <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BIB8sr2BJXt/?taken-by=learnwithplayathome" target="_blank">here</a>.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Kil7v8D_xK4/V5EQCiARZrI/AAAAAAAAP4I/NdEM6Tk41PkZW34Q0dxf8moMpnPi6ks-gCKgB/s640/P7180317.JPG" width="640" /> </div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-EQW_hbpPZhY/V5EQDygxCVI/AAAAAAAAP4I/LijYz0V3S-oHu4xVoknLJGMqeh3WZEMyACKgB/s1600/Photo%2B1-36.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-EQW_hbpPZhY/V5EQDygxCVI/AAAAAAAAP4I/LijYz0V3S-oHu4xVoknLJGMqeh3WZEMyACKgB/s640/Photo%2B1-36.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo by Theodore Sam Paul</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
They also decided that we would help them to plant some trees. I'll think about these children and those little trees often and wonder how they are all flourishing.<br />
<br />
<i>One of the funniest parts of this visit was when I tried to ask them if there were any adults that now attended their meetings. After my question was translated they laughed and I was told, "It's called a Children's Parliament for a reason." Well, duh! haha. Too funny.</i><br />
<br />
These children are empowered. They have hopes, they have skills, they have dreams, and unlike generations before them, they believe that they can do it. That they can reach for the stars and achieve. I believe they can do it too.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-SSJLJstOt3g/V5EQF52BsaI/AAAAAAAAP4Q/TAHCsskt_koIJSO-mFqy6_8mp9K4LL-cQCKgB/s1600/P7190366.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-SSJLJstOt3g/V5EQF52BsaI/AAAAAAAAP4Q/TAHCsskt_koIJSO-mFqy6_8mp9K4LL-cQCKgB/s640/P7190366.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
Then, from the older kids to the younger. Here, World Vision help support these government run Naganwadis (<b>child care</b> centres for 2-5 year olds) through training for the teachers. They are taught things like, how they can best care for the children, including providing the children with a <b>nourishing meal</b> while they are there, as well as curriculum materials like songs and rhymes to teach the children.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_ZdAQHUuSCc/V5EQJPIA2CI/AAAAAAAAP4Q/QDmVCLXqJu8bQtodqH7q7V9kISQxBUxuwCKgB/s1600/P7190372.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_ZdAQHUuSCc/V5EQJPIA2CI/AAAAAAAAP4Q/QDmVCLXqJu8bQtodqH7q7V9kISQxBUxuwCKgB/s640/P7190372.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8Zf-QWA9UHg/V5ESsxp8OpI/AAAAAAAAP4c/728-eegs938tmGGEtQ5CUvuWW-idu_U4QCKgB/s1600/P7190375.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8Zf-QWA9UHg/V5ESsxp8OpI/AAAAAAAAP4c/728-eegs938tmGGEtQ5CUvuWW-idu_U4QCKgB/s640/P7190375.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
They also paint murals, not only to make them more welcoming spaces for kids, but to help them learn, as well as providing toys that the children can play with. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
We spoke with some of the mothers of the children and they are very happy that their children have somewhere safe to go so that they may work or look after siblings, and especially that they know their kids are being monitored for health and growth, provided with adequate nutrition and are being given a head start in education.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<img border="0" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-IB6l8-d4Tcc/V5EQNQ9fwvI/AAAAAAAAP4Q/BsSrcGr9irwaAN_VLEFcJpEBAn3Y7m-wACKgB/s640/P7190384.JPG" width="640" /><br />
From childcare we move to <b>toilets</b>, which is something quite new to this area. Generally people here just have to do their business out in the open. Not only is this not sanitary, but it is not safe (girls have to always take someone with them for safety, which logistically, you can imagine would be frustrating). It is also often embarrassing if they have visitors come to stay from out of town, we were told by one of the locals.<br />
<br />
Here World Vision are helping to introduce toilets to houses, starting with 15 families of sponsor children, by joining with the government in providing materials for them to build their own bio toilets and educating the communities on how to keep them maintained. Now these families are using the toilets as a model to others in the village.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5_jk29Ydwtg/V5EQRYASmzI/AAAAAAAAP4Q/GZwT55l7SYogM3YwykPjL53cmf88IBD8ACKgB/s1600/P7190403.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5_jk29Ydwtg/V5EQRYASmzI/AAAAAAAAP4Q/GZwT55l7SYogM3YwykPjL53cmf88IBD8ACKgB/s640/P7190403.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
Lastly from this area, we saw this fabulous <b>Milk Society</b>. This village had a high rate of <b>malnutrition</b>, due to inadequate food and poverty, so in order to reduce this, World Vision gave <b>economic development assistance</b>, in the form of cows (of which the villagers must save money from their earnings and pay back 20% of the cost of the cow), and education (such as the importance of saving money, how to grow wealth, etc.) so that they could start to turn things around.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WvnlmWKSZI0/V5EQTHn0DqI/AAAAAAAAP4Q/7HHF6YCPRFwGgmBrjivVCEdy44M9q9KvwCKgB/s1600/P7190423.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WvnlmWKSZI0/V5EQTHn0DqI/AAAAAAAAP4Q/7HHF6YCPRFwGgmBrjivVCEdy44M9q9KvwCKgB/s640/P7190423.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
During this joyful visit, we were told by one of the villagers of how they'd turned one cow into six, by selling the milk and saving money to buy more cows. Over time, the rate of malnutrition in this village has decreased dramatically, as not only do they now have good milk to drink, not watered down milk like before, but the families are able to be self sufficient so they have enough to provide adequate food for their children.<br />
<br />
Once again, the community works together to support one another and like other projects we saw, the women always speak of their children as their biggest motivation and their desire to provide a life for them that was different to their own.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-OvsyVZbHxoE/V5EQUgpKIoI/AAAAAAAAP4Q/6jmD9BpeaxoQEYFGxIxZ1umKtWyemR02QCKgB/s1600/P7190429.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-OvsyVZbHxoE/V5EQUgpKIoI/AAAAAAAAP4Q/6jmD9BpeaxoQEYFGxIxZ1umKtWyemR02QCKgB/s640/P7190429.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
And the smiles. If they could invest in beautiful smiles, they'd be millionaires.<br />
<br />
That's a lot of different projects going on in this rural part of South India, and we've only just had a glimpse of some.<br />
<br />
Dear kids, can you believe that there are so many different things that <a href="http://www.worldvisionaustralia.com.au/" target="_blank">World Vision</a> are involved in? That help is being given where it needs it most, but not as charity, not as a handout, but by <b>facilitating empowerment</b>? The people in these stories have hope, dreams, health, dignity and happiness, and these are just a few examples. There is so much more but they will have to wait for another day.<br />
<br />
<i>If you missed them, here is <a href="http://www.learnwithplayathome.com/2016/07/dear-kids-mummys-going-to-india.html" target="_blank">Part 1</a>, and <a href="http://www.learnwithplayathome.com/2016/07/dear-kids-mummys-going-to-india-part-2.html" target="_blank">Part 2</a>. </i><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">You can also follow along with our adventures over on <a href="http://www.instagram.com/learnwithplayathome" target="_blank">Instagram</a>, under the tag #wvaindia and #wvabloggers. I’m here in India with fellow bloggers, Kelly from <a href="http://www.beafunmum.com/" target="_blank">Be a Fun Mum</a> and Alison from <a href="http://www.talkingfrankly.net/" target="_blank">Talking Frankly</a>. Check out their sites for even more of the story.</i><br />
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<div style="text-align: left;">
Thanks for following along and sharing,</div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<div style="text-align: left;">
<b><span style="font-size: large;">Debs :)</span></b></div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="color: #0b5394;">You can also find us here</span></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/learnwithplayathome" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vkHOFWBJK4o/UYyIgOBU9wI/AAAAAAAAGxo/RvuMjfHQ8L0/s1600/facebook.png" width="45" /></a><a href="http://pinterest.com/debstar4/" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Q4D1znEaQ1o/UYyIhLF1kZI/AAAAAAAAGyA/_ZtdQ6RKoXo/s1600/pinterest.png" width="45" /></a><a href="https://twitter.com/Learn_with_Play" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Bmqmpb9Xyjs/UYyIhMG5E3I/AAAAAAAAGyE/YAcBYCgfHSQ/s1600/twitter.png" width="45" /></a><a href="https://plus.google.com/u/0/113416249899539659575" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-44-9pseqqU4/UYyIgD7LORI/AAAAAAAAGxs/9dX88h__ySA/s1600/google%252B.png" width="45" /></a><a href="http://instagram.com/learnwithplayathome" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2fJM8P2Waec/UYyIgHDR4OI/AAAAAAAAGxw/p3Qh6jbkY3E/s1600/instagram.png" width="45" /></a><a href="mailto:learnwithplayathome@gmail.com" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jxw1Ykf18tU/UYyIgoSn7YI/AAAAAAAAGx0/h0Bdknuiv20/s1600/mail.png" width="45" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="color: #444444;">New Here? Subscribe to get all activities sent directly to you</span></b></div>
<form action="http://feedburner.google.com/fb/a/mailverify" method="post" onsubmit="window.open('http://feedburner.google.com/fb/a/mailverify?uri=LearnWithPlayHome', 'popupwindow', 'scrollbars=yes,width=550,height=520');return true" style="border: 1px solid #ccc; padding: 3px; text-align: center;" target="popupwindow">
Enter your email address:<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<input name="email" style="width: 140px;" type="text" /><br /></div>
<input name="uri" type="hidden" value="LearnWithPlayHome" /><input name="loc" type="hidden" value="en_US" /><input type="submit" value="Subscribe" /><br />
Delivered by <a href="http://feedburner.google.com/" target="_blank">FeedBurner</a></form>
Learn with Play at Homehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08323717740126935795noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6796821888191012398.post-14271062771108822942016-07-21T13:53:00.002+10:002016-07-28T15:50:50.545+10:00Dear Kids, Mummy's going to India. Part 2After arriving in Chennai, the state capital of the southern Indian state of Tamil Nadu, we caught the overnight train about 395 kms (or about 8 hours on the train) southeast to the Pudukkottai district, one of the least urbanised districts in Tamil Nadu where 80% of the people live in rural areas.<br />
<br />
Here we met the wonderful staff from World Vision India's Pudukottai Area Development Programme (ADP) office, who talked us through the projects that they are working on across 74 villages, which house approximately 16,500 children.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="426" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-119qqPZKt9Y/V4_HaTPs7FI/AAAAAAAAP20/rZ_HayGm6cg8Yi9jRVMRGI1kmIX4GirjgCKgB/s640/IMG_8298.JPG" width="640" /></div>
<br />
<a name='more'></a><br /><br />
One of the main things that I love about World Vision is that they are not about just walking into a village, telling them what they need, throwing a bit of time and money into it and then leaving them be. It is so, so, SO much more than that. World Vision employ people that live in the area and know it very, very well. They talk with the people, they learn and assess what the main issues are in these areas and then they develop a long term plan to assist where they can, with education as a key element. <b>At the heart of all of this, is the children</b>. Their rights and their needs are top priority and it is through <a href="https://sponsor.worldvision.com.au/#!/sponsor-a-child" target="_blank">child sponsorship</a> that funds are raised in order to be able to impact their lives and that of their families and communities, for the better. One of the main things that struck me about the World Vision staff was their passion for their work. It was so evident in the way that they spoke and it is so much more than a job for them.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-49ThflI_4qg/V4_HRZiQBYI/AAAAAAAAP20/cKRxlYLsRU4usa32yteKCwIPZ7qkqmgmQCKgB/s1600/Photo%2B1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-49ThflI_4qg/V4_HRZiQBYI/AAAAAAAAP20/cKRxlYLsRU4usa32yteKCwIPZ7qkqmgmQCKgB/s640/Photo%2B1.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo by Theodore Sam Paul</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Dear Kids, today's little story is about a bright colourful school, a whole lot of kids, some water and a garden.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-CQPGgGgeuBE/V4_HPfhhZNI/AAAAAAAAP20/wzg60q51Tt8sUubb7zP-AHXxVc4uwZ7hACKgB/s1600/Photo%2B1-5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-CQPGgGgeuBE/V4_HPfhhZNI/AAAAAAAAP20/wzg60q51Tt8sUubb7zP-AHXxVc4uwZ7hACKgB/s640/Photo%2B1-5.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo by Theodore Sam Paul</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
You know how I am always encouraging you to eat vegetables, because they are full of vitamins and minerals essential for your health and nutrition? Well, this is the same for all children around the world. Unfortunately in some areas of the world though, children do not have access to good, nutritious food for a variety of reasons. <i>In this region, one of the biggest issues for children is malnutrition (which leads to stunting and wasting which can have irreversible effects on the brain and development) and this is mainly due to people being too poor to provide nutrient rich meals and also because of improper rain fall which leads to a lack of water.</i><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bz_WbNwhzTw/V4_HUAwV-FI/AAAAAAAAP20/hL7wvYnHYH41aCrLFqQCVJawbNGPR3z6ACKgB/s1600/P7180141.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bz_WbNwhzTw/V4_HUAwV-FI/AAAAAAAAP20/hL7wvYnHYH41aCrLFqQCVJawbNGPR3z6ACKgB/s640/P7180141.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
At this school, as well as the regular subjects, children are being educated about health, hygiene and nutrition and each day they are provided with an nutritious, organic meal to help tackle the issue of malnutrition. As the school has a number of <b>sponsored children</b> in attendance, World Vision helped them establish a <b>Nutrition Garden</b> so that they could grow, harvest and prepare their own organic vegetables.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-I98t722pMAE/V4_HXpuM4jI/AAAAAAAAP20/TCMYOalUmBo2yPQQXQsQY0AxvttksTGuwCKgB/s640/P7180147.JPG" width="640" /></div>
Unfortunately, without adequate water, the garden could not survive, so World Vision put in a bore well, (dug very deep under ground to access water), so now the school has access to clean, safe water, not just for drinking and hygiene, but also so that their Nutrition Garden can survive and thrive.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-pysHKoKBDwM/V4_HeLb9-3I/AAAAAAAAP20/ugqZGYnysastVoaqc7ELCNlVzca1BXP9ACKgB/s640/P7180158.JPG" width="640" /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-LrTNFFpQp4Y/V4_HcbhoOsI/AAAAAAAAP20/WK-iYvWpF6suX5cHVVIS2kCK66fJc23xwCKgB/s640/P7180151.JPG" width="640" /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-jBZu7CTlofk/V4_HOIXgRmI/AAAAAAAAP20/kuKFB8sN9VIx7F0gIkH5GPCi-k48bsNIACKgB/s1600/Photo%2B1-14.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-jBZu7CTlofk/V4_HOIXgRmI/AAAAAAAAP20/kuKFB8sN9VIx7F0gIkH5GPCi-k48bsNIACKgB/s640/Photo%2B1-14.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo by Theodore Sam Paul</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Meeting the children was so wonderful. I saw the same sparkle in their eyes as in yours and their smiles warmed my heart.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-01G_TF-rYDk/V4_HYyX99EI/AAAAAAAAP20/ipju8tR6EnMX17wQaAIuHxvaEDa6c3uZwCKgB/s1600/P7180180.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-01G_TF-rYDk/V4_HYyX99EI/AAAAAAAAP20/ipju8tR6EnMX17wQaAIuHxvaEDa6c3uZwCKgB/s640/P7180180.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
Dear Kids, these children deserve to be healthy and well nourished so that they may grow and learn and thrive, just like you. It is wonderful that through the generosity of child sponsors and the work of World Vision, that this can be a reality for these children.<br />
<br />
Also, please eat your veggies. Love Mum.<br />
<br />
<br />
<i>If you missed Part 1, you can <a href="http://www.learnwithplayathome.com/2016/07/dear-kids-mummys-going-to-india.html">see it here</a>. Also, </i><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">You can follow along with our adventures over on <a href="http://www.instagram.com/learnwithplayathome" target="_blank">Instagram</a>, under the tag #wvaindia and #wvabloggers. I’m here in India with fellow bloggers, Kelly from <a href="http://www.beafunmum.com/" target="_blank">Be a Fun Mum</a> and Alison from <a href="http://www.talkingfrankly.net/" target="_blank">Talking Frankly</a>. Check out their sites for even more of the story.</i><br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<div style="text-align: start;">
Thanks for reading and sharing,</div>
<div style="text-align: start;">
<b style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">Debs :)</span></b></div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="color: #0b5394;">Look where else we are. Are you following along? :)</span></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/learnwithplayathome" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vkHOFWBJK4o/UYyIgOBU9wI/AAAAAAAAGxo/RvuMjfHQ8L0/s1600/facebook.png" width="45" /></a><a href="http://pinterest.com/debstar4/" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Q4D1znEaQ1o/UYyIhLF1kZI/AAAAAAAAGyA/_ZtdQ6RKoXo/s1600/pinterest.png" width="45" /></a><a href="https://twitter.com/Learn_with_Play" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Bmqmpb9Xyjs/UYyIhMG5E3I/AAAAAAAAGyE/YAcBYCgfHSQ/s1600/twitter.png" width="45" /></a><a href="https://plus.google.com/u/0/113416249899539659575" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-44-9pseqqU4/UYyIgD7LORI/AAAAAAAAGxs/9dX88h__ySA/s1600/google%252B.png" width="45" /></a><a href="http://instagram.com/learnwithplayathome" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2fJM8P2Waec/UYyIgHDR4OI/AAAAAAAAGxw/p3Qh6jbkY3E/s1600/instagram.png" width="45" /></a><a href="mailto:learnwithplayathome@gmail.com" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jxw1Ykf18tU/UYyIgoSn7YI/AAAAAAAAGx0/h0Bdknuiv20/s1600/mail.png" width="45" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="color: #444444;">New Here? Subscribe to get all activities sent directly to you</span></b></div>
<form action="http://feedburner.google.com/fb/a/mailverify" method="post" onsubmit="window.open('http://feedburner.google.com/fb/a/mailverify?uri=LearnWithPlayHome', 'popupwindow', 'scrollbars=yes,width=550,height=520');return true" style="border: 1px solid #ccc; padding: 3px; text-align: center;" target="popupwindow">
Enter your email address:<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<input name="email" style="width: 140px;" type="text" /><br /></div>
<input name="uri" type="hidden" value="LearnWithPlayHome" /><input name="loc" type="hidden" value="en_US" /><input type="submit" value="Subscribe" /><br />
Delivered by <a href="http://feedburner.google.com/" target="_blank">FeedBurner</a></form>
Learn with Play at Homehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08323717740126935795noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6796821888191012398.post-55615691517710957642016-07-19T15:16:00.000+10:002016-07-28T15:51:08.951+10:00Dear Kids, Mummy's going to India<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">When I first found out that I was going to
go to India with World Vision, I was incredibly excited; followed quickly by
nerves, anxiety and fear. Not because of where I was going, or who I was going
with, but more because of whom I was leaving behind. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-bxklGqHT7wQ/V421MDE9cKI/AAAAAAAAP1o/akoMkWo03qUDzw56N2anUrDCc0QgiD2nwCKgB/s1600/P7180345.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-bxklGqHT7wQ/V421MDE9cKI/AAAAAAAAP1o/akoMkWo03qUDzw56N2anUrDCc0QgiD2nwCKgB/s640/P7180345.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">I love to travel, I crave to see the world
and know it’s people, but I love it most with my family. My kids are my heart
and packing my bags and saying goodbye wasn’t easy. Neither was explaining to
them exactly why it was that I was going.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br />
<a name='more'></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">I explained to my children that I was going
with World Vision Australia to see the work that World Vision in India is
doing. That I would be going “in to the field” and meeting people and hearing
their stories so that I can tell others. “Ok” they said with blankish nods. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">“So, do they grow food in the field?”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>asked my daughter.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">“Huh? Oh, in a field, like a paddock or
something? No, that’s not what I meant when I said, in to the field.” I
laughed. “It’s just an expression that means I’m going to be going to the
actual locations where money that is raised through child sponsorship and other
donations is spent. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">“Ahh” (some dawning realization) “Ok.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">“You know how we sponsor Yolamu in Malawi
and we pay money to World Vision each month? Remember how I’ve told you that
the money isn’t just for him? (nods) In fact, the money is used to support the
whole family and the community too. You see, World Vision, in each country and
each area of the world, have people that live in the area and know and
understand the complex cultures and differences and needs of each area,
community or village, and together they identify and address the issues most
pressing for that area. From there, they develop programs, designed to educate
and empower the community to strive for real change and make an ongoing
impact.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">More nods. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">I realised then, it was kind of hard to
explain it to children. In fact, even adults can have a difficult time
understanding what really goes on and how aid works and this is part of why I
was being invited over. To learn, to see and to experience what really goes on
and what impacts are actually being made, so that I might be able to find a way
to explain the importance and to share with others back home and around the
world.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YcPY04mw9FA/V421Njva7WI/AAAAAAAAP1s/M-f-43RtrXE9LAbl_zYypqTf12_QwM9DQCKgB/s1600/P7180117.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YcPY04mw9FA/V421Njva7WI/AAAAAAAAP1s/M-f-43RtrXE9LAbl_zYypqTf12_QwM9DQCKgB/s640/P7180117.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">And so, here I am, in India. The world’s second
highest populated country and predicted to become the highest in the near
future.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-miIwZCXxmTQ/V421KWEGJfI/AAAAAAAAP1k/d9B-OYzFrrwx2rApwA_zBlSsFtFZBmslgCKgB/s1600/P7170029.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-miIwZCXxmTQ/V421KWEGJfI/AAAAAAAAP1k/d9B-OYzFrrwx2rApwA_zBlSsFtFZBmslgCKgB/s640/P7170029.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-umIqS-qFhn0/V421b81MHLI/AAAAAAAAP18/aqWZt6KqJh0vDuOK7ZPOvcEuI_50Va0XQCKgB/s1600/india%2Bcollage.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-umIqS-qFhn0/V421b81MHLI/AAAAAAAAP18/aqWZt6KqJh0vDuOK7ZPOvcEuI_50Va0XQCKgB/s1600/india%2Bcollage.png" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">I’ve just spent my first full day in the
field, where we visited three of the projects that World Vision has helped
implement in the rural area of Pudukottai in the Indian state of Tamil
Nadu.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>My head is still spinning from the
exuberance, energy, passion, warmth and sincerity of the people that we have
had the pleasure of meeting. Who generously, sometimes bravely and almost all with
pride and passion, told us their stories and how World Vision has helped and
impacted their lives and the spill on effect from that.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TEucbOBo2tg/V421Uxyxy4I/AAAAAAAAP10/XTha1lS0bVklQTt99aB2BvbDldygEitEgCKgB/s1600/P7180250-001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TEucbOBo2tg/V421Uxyxy4I/AAAAAAAAP10/XTha1lS0bVklQTt99aB2BvbDldygEitEgCKgB/s1600/P7180250-001.JPG" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">Their stories will follow soon, but for
now, it’s time for me to close my eyes from the sensory explosion that is India,
rest my head that’s bursting full of new knowledge, faces and experiences, and
go to sleep. Hopefully with dreams of my babies back at home, who are doing
their little bit, even if they don’t know it, by sharing their mum for a little
while. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-m87MKrF5AY0/V421QGN6ExI/AAAAAAAAP1w/s8sbtB4lwO4G6eT9_RJ1Iy53Sfxc-I6ewCKgB/s1600/P7180144-001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-m87MKrF5AY0/V421QGN6ExI/AAAAAAAAP1w/s8sbtB4lwO4G6eT9_RJ1Iy53Sfxc-I6ewCKgB/s640/P7180144-001.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US"><o:p><br /></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">Dear Kids, Mummy is in India and she can’t
wait to tell you all about it.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<o:DocumentProperties>
<o:Revision>0</o:Revision>
<o:TotalTime>0</o:TotalTime>
<o:Pages>1</o:Pages>
<o:Words>542</o:Words>
<o:Characters>3095</o:Characters>
<o:Company>Learn With Play at Home</o:Company>
<o:Lines>25</o:Lines>
<o:Paragraphs>7</o:Paragraphs>
<o:CharactersWithSpaces>3630</o:CharactersWithSpaces>
<o:Version>14.0</o:Version>
</o:DocumentProperties>
<o:OfficeDocumentSettings>
<o:AllowPNG/>
</o:OfficeDocumentSettings>
</xml><![endif]-->
<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<w:WordDocument>
<w:View>Normal</w:View>
<w:Zoom>0</w:Zoom>
<w:TrackMoves/>
<w:TrackFormatting/>
<w:PunctuationKerning/>
<w:ValidateAgainstSchemas/>
<w:SaveIfXMLInvalid>false</w:SaveIfXMLInvalid>
<w:IgnoreMixedContent>false</w:IgnoreMixedContent>
<w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText>false</w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText>
<w:DoNotPromoteQF/>
<w:LidThemeOther>EN-US</w:LidThemeOther>
<w:LidThemeAsian>JA</w:LidThemeAsian>
<w:LidThemeComplexScript>X-NONE</w:LidThemeComplexScript>
<w:Compatibility>
<w:BreakWrappedTables/>
<w:SnapToGridInCell/>
<w:WrapTextWithPunct/>
<w:UseAsianBreakRules/>
<w:DontGrowAutofit/>
<w:SplitPgBreakAndParaMark/>
<w:EnableOpenTypeKerning/>
<w:DontFlipMirrorIndents/>
<w:OverrideTableStyleHps/>
<w:UseFELayout/>
</w:Compatibility>
<m:mathPr>
<m:mathFont m:val="Cambria Math"/>
<m:brkBin m:val="before"/>
<m:brkBinSub m:val="--"/>
<m:smallFrac m:val="off"/>
<m:dispDef/>
<m:lMargin m:val="0"/>
<m:rMargin m:val="0"/>
<m:defJc m:val="centerGroup"/>
<m:wrapIndent m:val="1440"/>
<m:intLim m:val="subSup"/>
<m:naryLim m:val="undOvr"/>
</m:mathPr></w:WordDocument>
</xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<w:LatentStyles DefLockedState="false" DefUnhideWhenUsed="true"
DefSemiHidden="true" DefQFormat="false" DefPriority="99"
LatentStyleCount="276">
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="0" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Normal"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="heading 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 7"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 8"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 9"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 7"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 8"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 9"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="35" QFormat="true" Name="caption"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="10" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Title"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="1" Name="Default Paragraph Font"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="11" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Subtitle"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="22" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Strong"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="20" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="59" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Table Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Placeholder Text"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="1" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="No Spacing"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Revision"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="34" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="List Paragraph"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="29" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Quote"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="30" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Intense Quote"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="19" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Subtle Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="21" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Intense Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="31" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Subtle Reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="32" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Intense Reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="33" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Book Title"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="37" Name="Bibliography"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" QFormat="true" Name="TOC Heading"/>
</w:LatentStyles>
</xml><![endif]-->
<!--[if gte mso 10]>
<style>
/* Style Definitions */
table.MsoNormalTable
{mso-style-name:"Table Normal";
mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0;
mso-tstyle-colband-size:0;
mso-style-noshow:yes;
mso-style-priority:99;
mso-style-parent:"";
mso-padding-alt:0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt;
mso-para-margin:0cm;
mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt;
mso-pagination:widow-orphan;
font-size:12.0pt;
font-family:Cambria;
mso-ascii-font-family:Cambria;
mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-hansi-font-family:Cambria;
mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-ansi-language:EN-US;}
</style>
<![endif]-->
<!--StartFragment-->
<!--EndFragment--><br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span lang="EN-US">You
can follow along with our adventures (when we have wifi that is), over on
<a href="http://www.instagram.com/learnwithplayathome" target="_blank">Instagram</a>, under the tag #wvaindia and #wvabloggers. I’m here in India with
fellow bloggers, Kelly from <a href="http://www.beafunmum.com/" target="_blank">Be a Fun Mum</a> and Alison from <a href="http://www.talkingfrankly.net/" target="_blank">Talking Frankly</a>. Check
out their sites for even more of the story.<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br />
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<div style="text-align: left;">
<b><span style="font-size: large;">Debs :)</span></b></div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></b>
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="color: #0b5394;">Look where else we are. Are you following along? :)</span></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/learnwithplayathome" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vkHOFWBJK4o/UYyIgOBU9wI/AAAAAAAAGxo/RvuMjfHQ8L0/s1600/facebook.png" width="45" /></a><a href="http://pinterest.com/debstar4/" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Q4D1znEaQ1o/UYyIhLF1kZI/AAAAAAAAGyA/_ZtdQ6RKoXo/s1600/pinterest.png" width="45" /></a><a href="https://twitter.com/Learn_with_Play" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Bmqmpb9Xyjs/UYyIhMG5E3I/AAAAAAAAGyE/YAcBYCgfHSQ/s1600/twitter.png" width="45" /></a><a href="https://plus.google.com/u/0/113416249899539659575" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-44-9pseqqU4/UYyIgD7LORI/AAAAAAAAGxs/9dX88h__ySA/s1600/google%252B.png" width="45" /></a><a href="http://instagram.com/learnwithplayathome" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2fJM8P2Waec/UYyIgHDR4OI/AAAAAAAAGxw/p3Qh6jbkY3E/s1600/instagram.png" width="45" /></a><a href="mailto:learnwithplayathome@gmail.com" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jxw1Ykf18tU/UYyIgoSn7YI/AAAAAAAAGx0/h0Bdknuiv20/s1600/mail.png" width="45" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="color: #444444;">New Here? Subscribe to get all activities sent directly to you</span></b></div>
<form action="http://feedburner.google.com/fb/a/mailverify" method="post" onsubmit="window.open('http://feedburner.google.com/fb/a/mailverify?uri=LearnWithPlayHome', 'popupwindow', 'scrollbars=yes,width=550,height=520');return true" style="border: 1px solid #ccc; padding: 3px; text-align: center;" target="popupwindow">
Enter your email address:<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<input name="email" style="width: 140px;" type="text" /><br /></div>
<input name="uri" type="hidden" value="LearnWithPlayHome" /><input name="loc" type="hidden" value="en_US" /><input type="submit" value="Subscribe" /><br />
Delivered by <a href="http://feedburner.google.com/" target="_blank">FeedBurner</a></form>
Learn with Play at Homehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08323717740126935795noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6796821888191012398.post-25589461534389050892016-07-08T18:38:00.000+10:002016-07-08T19:03:02.282+10:00ABCs and 123s eBook. 40+ hands-on activities for building letter, number and shape skills.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Come <a href="http://www.pinterest.com/debstar4/" target="_blank">check us out on Pinterest</a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-fpixh9O8Euw/V34ARw4pLPI/AAAAAAAAP0w/8dp7y9F7ZIASo4zBvk9xtTRrKMBChiA_gCKgB/s1600/book%2Bcover%2B1.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-fpixh9O8Euw/V34ARw4pLPI/AAAAAAAAP0w/8dp7y9F7ZIASo4zBvk9xtTRrKMBChiA_gCKgB/s640/book%2Bcover%2B1.png" width="452" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
I am delighted to bring you our latest <b>kids educational activity</b> <b>ebook</b>.<br />
<br />
This fun book, full of hands-on <b>literacy and numeracy </b>activities has been collaborated on by a fabulous group of bloggers and is jam packed full of engaging activities with easy to follow instructions and explanations. With multiple <b>authentic learning opportunities</b> in literacy and maths that incorporate <b>art, sensory learning, motor skills and discovery</b>, for a whole-brain approach.<br />
<br />
<div>
Whether you are a <b>teacher in the classroom or a parent at home</b>, you will love the clear text, bright pictures and ideas for further learning, brought to you by a group of <b>mums and teachers</b> that have <i>tried and tested all of these activities with real kids.</i> I am sure you will enjoy your copy of <b>ABCs and 123s. 40+ hands-on play activities to build letter, number and shape skills.</b><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://bit.ly/29wl7XK" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="144" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-s9PgI8XAShI/V34ASvStEuI/AAAAAAAAP0w/A46S0lHx2_sIQ0-DH-q-Jkx5_6TtkJ3mwCKgB/s320/buy-now.png" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br />
Regular Price: $14.99.</div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://bit.ly/29wl7XK" target="_blank">BUY NOW: $11.25 USD</a><br />
(25% off for the first 2 weeks of launch. Hurry!)</div>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #141823; font-family: "helvetica" , "arial" , "lucida grande" , "tahoma" , "verdana" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"></span><br />
<a name='more'></a><b style="color: #141823; font-family: helvetica, arial, 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19.32px;">What's included in your purchase?</b><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial"; font-size: 14.6667px; line-height: 1.38; white-space: pre-wrap;">:: 40+ hands-on play ideas that will help your child build their letter and math skills</span><br />
<div dir="ltr" style="display: inline !important; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "arial"; font-size: 14.6667px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">:: multisensory activities for children aged 2 to 8</span><span style="font-family: "arial"; font-size: 14.6667px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br class="kix-line-break" /></span><span style="font-family: "arial"; font-size: 14.6667px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">:: resources for parents and teachers, at home or in the classroom, with ideas for indoor and outdoor learning</span><span style="font-family: "arial"; font-size: 14.6667px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br class="kix-line-break" /></span><span style="font-family: "arial"; font-size: 14.6667px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">:: material lists, step-by-step instructions and full colour photographs of every activity</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "arial"; font-size: 14.6667px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">:: suggestions for variations and extensions so you can adapt the activities to suit your child</span><span style="font-family: "arial"; font-size: 14.6667px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br class="kix-line-break" /></span><span style="font-family: "arial"; font-size: 14.6667px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">:: a wide range of learning activities, across literacy and math, including:</span></div>
<ul>
<li dir="ltr" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.6667px; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline;"><div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="font-size: 14.6667px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">learning to recognise and write letters and numbers</span></div>
</li>
<li dir="ltr" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.6667px; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline;"><div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="font-size: 14.6667px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">understanding both upper and lower case letters</span></div>
</li>
<li dir="ltr" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.6667px; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline;"><div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="font-size: 14.6667px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">drawing shapes and making marks</span></div>
</li>
<li dir="ltr" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.6667px; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline;"><div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="font-size: 14.6667px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">working on alphabetic order</span></div>
</li>
<li dir="ltr" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.6667px; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline;"><div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="font-size: 14.6667px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">working on spelling of your name, sight words, cvc words and other vocabulary</span></div>
</li>
<li dir="ltr" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.6667px; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline;"><div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="font-size: 14.6667px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">developing language skills</span></div>
</li>
<li dir="ltr" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.6667px; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline;"><div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="font-size: 14.6667px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">understanding one-to-one correspondence</span></div>
</li>
<li dir="ltr" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.6667px; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline;"><div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="font-size: 14.6667px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">learning to count, to add, and subtract</span></div>
</li>
<li dir="ltr" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 14.6667px; list-style-type: disc; vertical-align: baseline;"><div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="font-size: 14.6667px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">base-ten understanding and double digit addition</span></div>
</li>
</ul>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-yyaUjA6TOfI/V34AVeBFO0I/AAAAAAAAP0w/FkcLAu4t_r47peKjTjnW4uujCftVpd8jACKgB/s1600/collage%2Bsquare.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-yyaUjA6TOfI/V34AVeBFO0I/AAAAAAAAP0w/FkcLAu4t_r47peKjTjnW4uujCftVpd8jACKgB/s640/collage%2Bsquare.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://bit.ly/29wl7XK" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="144" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-s9PgI8XAShI/V34ASvStEuI/AAAAAAAAP0w/A46S0lHx2_sIQ0-DH-q-Jkx5_6TtkJ3mwCKgB/s320/buy-now.png" width="320" /></a></div>
</div>
<ul></ul>
<h3>
<span style="color: #141823; font-family: "helvetica" , "arial" , "lucida grande" , "tahoma" , "verdana" , "arial" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 19.32px;">Have a sneak peak at what's inside</span></span></h3>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Eq2rXKjM_-g/V34AXhnCbwI/AAAAAAAAP0w/FSJT4cXFQ7oeZ4R1XV-bC6eX5Pd0KPfpACKgB/s1600/page%2Bsample%2B2.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="456" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Eq2rXKjM_-g/V34AXhnCbwI/AAAAAAAAP0w/FSJT4cXFQ7oeZ4R1XV-bC6eX5Pd0KPfpACKgB/s640/page%2Bsample%2B2.PNG" width="640" /></a></div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<h3>
<span style="color: #141823; font-family: "helvetica" , "arial" , "lucida grande" , "tahoma" , "verdana" , "arial" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 19.32px;">How to buy</span></span></h3>
<h2 style="text-align: center;">
<ul style="font-size: medium; font-weight: normal; text-align: start;">
<li style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #141823; font-family: "helvetica" , "arial" , "lucida grande" , "tahoma" , "verdana" , "arial" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 19.32px;">This e-book is available for all no matter where you live in the world. Don't worry about the currency, paypal will sort it out automatically for you</span></span></li>
<li style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #141823; font-family: "helvetica" , "arial" , "lucida grande" , "tahoma" , "verdana" , "arial" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 19.32px;">Click on the blue "BUY NOW" buttons or click <a href="http://bit.ly/29wl7XK" target="_blank">here</a> and follow the simple instructions to checkout</span></span></li>
<li style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #141823; font-family: "helvetica" , "arial" , "lucida grande" , "tahoma" , "verdana" , "arial" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 19.32px;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 14.4444px; line-height: 21.4667px;">You can buy it now, on any device, and then download it when you are ready. Depending on the apps you have installed and your operating system you might be able to go ahead and download the book on your mobile device, but if you have any doubts or problems, I recommend you use a computer to download the book and then share it to your mobile devices</span></span></span></li>
</ul>
</h2>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-JnfkxiIBoqU/V34AW44heVI/AAAAAAAAP0w/fZLjtKQvIWkVqgGXSnYYIMyeQzXLlNmGwCKgB/s1600/Debquote.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-JnfkxiIBoqU/V34AW44heVI/AAAAAAAAP0w/fZLjtKQvIWkVqgGXSnYYIMyeQzXLlNmGwCKgB/s640/Debquote.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://bit.ly/29wl7XK" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="144" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-s9PgI8XAShI/V34ASvStEuI/AAAAAAAAP0w/A46S0lHx2_sIQ0-DH-q-Jkx5_6TtkJ3mwCKgB/s320/buy-now.png" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
<b>You can also check out the other eBooks we have for sale:</b><br />
<br />
<ul>
<li> <a href="http://www.learnwithplayathome.com/2014/05/activities-and-printable-resources-for.html" target="_blank">3-5 Playful Preschool</a> </li>
<li><a href="http://www.learnwithplayathome.com/2014/10/fizz-pop-bang-playful-science-and-maths.html" target="_blank">Fizz-Pop-Bang! Maths and Science E-book</a> </li>
</ul>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.learnwithplayathome.com/2014/05/activities-and-printable-resources-for.html" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-g8xfqDNXJCk/U3gM-IP0DoI/AAAAAAAAKEA/EJPGAhLbGdU/s400/10346312_788030207887683_6604733623691846317_n.jpg" width="292" /></a> <a href="http://www.learnwithplayathome.com/2014/10/fizz-pop-bang-playful-science-and-maths.html" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gxjE9pAj6UQ/VWzxGuPIjKI/AAAAAAAANiU/kINb19D1wXg/s320/10391374_876962322327804_6385711039531323087_n.jpg" width="267" /></a></div>
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<i><span style="font-size: x-small;"><br /></span></i>
<br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<i><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">‘</span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The ABCs and 123s ebook is published and sold by Cathy James at NurtureStore.co.uk. Please direct any customer service queries regarding purchases of the ebook to </span><a href="mailto:support@nurturestore.co.uk" style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #1155cc; font-family: "arial"; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">support@nurturestore.co.uk</span></a><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> or refer to the </span><a href="http://nurturestore.co.uk/frequently-asked-questions-re-our-ebooks" style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: #1155cc; font-family: "arial"; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">NurtureStore FAQ</span></a><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">.</span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "arial"; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span><span style="font-family: "arial"; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The ABCs and 123s ebook is protected under copyright © 2016. All rights reserved</span><span style="font-family: "arial"; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">.’</span></span></i></div>
</div>
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br />
Happy playing,</div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<div style="text-align: left;">
<b><span style="font-size: large;">Debs :)</span></b></div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></b>
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="color: #0b5394;">Look where else we are. Are you following along? :)</span></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/learnwithplayathome" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vkHOFWBJK4o/UYyIgOBU9wI/AAAAAAAAGxo/RvuMjfHQ8L0/s1600/facebook.png" width="45" /></a><a href="http://pinterest.com/debstar4/" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Q4D1znEaQ1o/UYyIhLF1kZI/AAAAAAAAGyA/_ZtdQ6RKoXo/s1600/pinterest.png" width="45" /></a><a href="https://twitter.com/Learn_with_Play" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Bmqmpb9Xyjs/UYyIhMG5E3I/AAAAAAAAGyE/YAcBYCgfHSQ/s1600/twitter.png" width="45" /></a><a href="https://plus.google.com/u/0/113416249899539659575" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-44-9pseqqU4/UYyIgD7LORI/AAAAAAAAGxs/9dX88h__ySA/s1600/google%252B.png" width="45" /></a><a href="http://instagram.com/learnwithplayathome" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2fJM8P2Waec/UYyIgHDR4OI/AAAAAAAAGxw/p3Qh6jbkY3E/s1600/instagram.png" width="45" /></a><a href="mailto:learnwithplayathome@gmail.com" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jxw1Ykf18tU/UYyIgoSn7YI/AAAAAAAAGx0/h0Bdknuiv20/s1600/mail.png" width="45" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="color: #444444;">New Here? Subscribe to get all activities sent directly to you</span></b></div>
<form action="http://feedburner.google.com/fb/a/mailverify" method="post" onsubmit="window.open('http://feedburner.google.com/fb/a/mailverify?uri=LearnWithPlayHome', 'popupwindow', 'scrollbars=yes,width=550,height=520');return true" style="border: 1px solid #ccc; padding: 3px; text-align: center;" target="popupwindow">
Enter your email address:<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<input name="email" style="width: 140px;" type="text" /><br /></div>
<input name="uri" type="hidden" value="LearnWithPlayHome" /><input name="loc" type="hidden" value="en_US" /><input type="submit" value="Subscribe" /><br />
Delivered by <a href="http://feedburner.google.com/" target="_blank">FeedBurner</a></form>
Learn with Play at Homehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08323717740126935795noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6796821888191012398.post-28714124237193400482016-06-04T15:34:00.002+10:002016-06-04T15:34:47.142+10:00Autumn Leaf Investigation Table. Open ended literacy, science and creativity.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-EBAmSZ8xc_w/V1JGHssAZ4I/AAAAAAAAPm8/0r1NK905_F8d5y9t-0xnwf8pFpt3PtlpgCKgB/s1600/Autumn%2BLeaf%2BInvestigation%2BTable.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-EBAmSZ8xc_w/V1JGHssAZ4I/AAAAAAAAPm8/0r1NK905_F8d5y9t-0xnwf8pFpt3PtlpgCKgB/s640/Autumn%2BLeaf%2BInvestigation%2BTable.jpg" width="448" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
The change in <b>seasons</b> can be a dramatic one, depending on where you live. Here in <b>Australia</b>, <b>Autumn</b> (Fall) is during the months of March, April and May and we actually have very few <b>deciduous trees</b> (trees that loose their leaves) that are native to our country. We do have some, but they are far outnumbered by the <b>evergreen trees</b>, so when we see the change in colour and pops of red, orange and yellow appearing on trees, they really stand out against the all the green.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
To further <b>investigate the changes happening around us and to inspire learning and creativity</b>, I set up this <b>Autumn Leaf Investigation Table</b> for my kids. At ages 4 and 7, I knew that their experiences were going to be different to one another and that materials and even expectations had to be open-ended and able to be used in a way that interested them and was appropriate to their levels.</div>
<a name='more'></a><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>Unfortunately it took me so long to get around to sharing what we got up to, it is now Winter here! Whoops. We still have a number of brilliantly coloured leaves around, with the trees still continuing to drop their leaves so there's still time for investigating the Autumn leaves, even if it's not Autumn.</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b>Ages</b>: 3+ (see the bottom for tips to simplify or extend for your child's level)</div>
<br />
<img border="0" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-iOlDr8vqb4k/V1JGOVtYbdI/AAAAAAAAPm8/SBcjoqfiUhUtmBb-tQSBSVO19UReigrxwCKgB/s640/P5200235.JPG" width="640" /><br />
Collecting a whole range of beautiful coloured leaves was the first step in creating our Autumn Leaf Investigation Table. I then added other materials to the table to inspire play and creativity.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-zkT10Rvgq_Y/V1JGL6ZFBnI/AAAAAAAAPm8/24awMiWSnz0YrrUpJXKEtZ3h0OsccnTdwCKgB/s640/P5200233.JPG" width="640" /></div>
Mr 4 and I brainstormed some words relating to Autumn which I wrote down on the table for him.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-t7zWrVNC9ng/V1JGNbtIPPI/AAAAAAAAPm8/9v5Jm9XPmjMJRsF9FXVedR_XPgy9tpf6wCKgB/s640/P5200234.JPG" width="640" /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I included a picture dictionary with related words as well as a couple of related nature word cards I had.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RnfeADh3Gwk/V1JGP0DuC0I/AAAAAAAAPm8/R5l2TAy9mjMnu6DwBIPPUXMhLKwX5xIfwCKgB/s640/P5200237.JPG" width="640" /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5IEqNz-GCm4/V1JGSGycbdI/AAAAAAAAPm8/ePotJ_WW2EsksixCAgJpRvdpUOFcN0-VACKgB/s640/P5200238.JPG" width="640" /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Creative materials like oil pastels, paint pens, ink pads and black paper were also added to the table.</div>
<img border="0" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-T5E5fUQv6Pc/V1JGJiIo83I/AAAAAAAAPm8/MjFcyMvAOtkziSbAhZWrW3t404l43UE6gCKgB/s640/P5200232.JPG" style="text-align: center;" width="640" /><br />
Time to jump in!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-MHDtrXoRT2U/V1JGTM6HA-I/AAAAAAAAPm8/D5220SsRyM4P55zqLJL74Bz1WDRh0_SfACKgB/s640/P5200242.JPG" width="640" /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="350" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-PrGcSDq20fo/V1JGUhaVXZI/AAAAAAAAPm8/8QBvuvrdUGQG6lp3Cb_qP7v9yy0Nn7mHwCKgB/s640/leaf%2Bprinting.png" width="640" /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-TjLAR3w4gQ8/V1JGV6GJ7cI/AAAAAAAAPnA/nMX2vavLVHoGOxv66_7_wuQ0JK1eWSeqwCKgB/s640/P5200283.JPG" width="640" /></div>
Being beside him while he worked allowed me to chat with him about different things he was trying and help him make connections between his experiences and the text and information around him. It also allowed us to include the language the experiences naturally brought about, thus helping increase his understanding and vocabulary.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sAHVqHEPsP4/V1JGXPzOfDI/AAAAAAAAPnA/ul96iff60hECyvh7mRV7vAFIwWA_DlBvgCKgB/s640/P5200284.JPG" width="640" /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-CR3qYBnzQwU/V1JGYTj6aRI/AAAAAAAAPnA/0LZ5haIr2zUO8vM4u-HGHSUoyC7J_dFhwCKgB/s640/P5200289.JPG" width="640" /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-eQ0_P5pKF9E/V1JGa96T29I/AAAAAAAAPnA/1JAZ3Sctuok2PETwgP2Rur6kH-McoEVKACKgB/s640/P5200290.JPG" width="640" /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Ic9JJwx4BlA/V1JGcBnqtZI/AAAAAAAAPnA/y_H5Q39Jcvc8SduLjBRrkou9tx15FH8rACKgB/s640/P5200291.JPG" width="640" /></div>
<b>Leaf rubbing</b> turned out to be a favourite activity. Whilst the printing with ink he attempted earlier didn't give the results he was after, rubbing over the leaves with oil pastel to reveal the shape and all the veins was a winner! This led us to talking about the veins and the <b>science</b> behind why leaves have veins.<br />
<img border="0" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FIm8dEEHfFI/V1JGetrTZwI/AAAAAAAAPnA/x3ykR-hDaWcet-OpbLmpaEVrdiM8yig-QCKgB/s640/P5200298.JPG" style="text-align: center;" width="640" /><img border="0" height="350" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cLS4Ec00tks/V1JGdVMWi-I/AAAAAAAAPnA/grwycEyUB7ISX8OWThtir-hSRlZk17ujQCKgB/s640/writing%2Bleaf.png" style="text-align: center;" width="640" /><br />
As well as decorating some leaves, he even attempted some writing, inspired by wanting to try out fluro oil pastels on black paper. Yay!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
When Miss 7 got home from school and saw our Autumn Leaf exploration, she wanted in on it too. As her class at school have recently been studying poetry, she was inspired by the leaves and words to write an <b>Autumn themed poem</b>.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-z1858emf1hI/V1JGfhDMljI/AAAAAAAAPnA/CQ3GIyBWRpMRWoW1ZAsObXImMezmT3WsACKgB/s640/P5200301.JPG" width="640" /></div>
We started by thinking about different types of poetry (like acrostic, sonnet, haiku, free verse, etc.) and the type of poem she wanted to write. We then brainstormed various "autumn" themed words and words that rhymed with them for inspiration.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pJXWLp0a2ic/V1JGhSYpVfI/AAAAAAAAPnA/E4DE1n7LPOMNYF6IX_E1TOWo7CLz1F2tACKgB/s640/P5200307.JPG" width="640" /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
She was very proud of her finished poem and has future plans for writing it up on a lovely leaf inspired artwork.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<b>Handy Tips</b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
- <b>Simplify </b>this activity for younger children by placing less of a focus on writing and more on exploring the leaves, colours, patterns and prints. It is still important to provide a text rich environment for children of all ages so having complimentary books/posters/word cards etc. is perfectly fine. You could include some larger words for tracing if you like.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
- <b>Extend</b> this activity by:</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
</div>
<ul>
<li style="text-align: left;">Brainstorming with children about all the words that come to mind when they think about "Autumn"</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">Researching about Autumn in their area and the type of deciduous trees around (what resources could they use? Books, Internet, etc.)</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">Encouraging children to write a story or poem based around Autumn</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">Creating an Autumn inspired art work or song</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">Sorting and classifying your collected leaves. What different groupings could they use? (shape, colour, size, etc.)</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">Focusing on the science behind the change in leaf colours. (This could be through research, writing up a project, making a film documentary, etc.)</li>
</ul>
<div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
- <b>Mix it up</b> by adding in other materials like glue, string, scissors, paint, magnifying glass, beaker, water, etc. You can still do a similar exploration during any season of the year, it'll just end up with different focuses depending on the leaves you find and collect. </div>
</div>
<div>
<div style="text-align: start;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: start;">
<div style="text-align: left;">
-<b> Open Ended Invitations to Play</b> <b>and Explore</b> are a favourite way of mine to set up an activity to entice learning. Here are a few more we've shared: </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<ul>
<li><a href="http://www.learnwithplayathome.com/2014/11/sensory-spring-table-investigation.html">Sensory Spring Table Investigation</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.learnwithplayathome.com/2014/03/invitation-to-play-and-learn-with.html">Coloured Water and Recycled Materials Investigation</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.learnwithplayathome.com/2013/04/an-invitation-to-play-and-learn-with.html" target="_blank">Numbers and Natural Materials</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.learnwithplayathome.com/2013/06/invitation-to-play-and-learn-with.html" target="_blank">Playdough and Magnetic Letters</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.learnwithplayathome.com/2013/05/invitation-to-play-and-learn-with.html" target="_blank">Plastic Food Painting</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.learnwithplayathome.com/2013/04/sticky-table-garden-contact-paper.html" target="_blank">Sticky Table Garden</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.learnwithplayathome.com/2012/10/invitation-to-paint-with-recycled.html" target="_blank">Paint with Recycled Materials</a></li>
</ul>
</div>
</div>
<b><br /></b>
- <b>Further Reading:</b><br />
<ul>
<li><a href="http://www.abc.net.au/news/2016-03-07/deciduous-trees-in-australia/7200608" target="_blank">Why aren't there more deciduous trees in Australia?</a></li>
<li><a href="http://harvardforest.fas.harvard.edu/leaves/science" target="_blank">The science of leaf colour change</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.hometrainingtools.com/a/leaf-chromatography-science-project" target="_blank">Leaf chromatography science project</a></li>
</ul>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Happy playing and creating,</div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<div style="text-align: left;">
<b><span style="font-size: large;">Debs :)</span></b></div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></b>
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="color: #0b5394;">Look where else we are. Are you following along? :)</span></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/learnwithplayathome" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vkHOFWBJK4o/UYyIgOBU9wI/AAAAAAAAGxo/RvuMjfHQ8L0/s1600/facebook.png" width="45" /></a><a href="http://pinterest.com/debstar4/" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Q4D1znEaQ1o/UYyIhLF1kZI/AAAAAAAAGyA/_ZtdQ6RKoXo/s1600/pinterest.png" width="45" /></a><a href="https://twitter.com/Learn_with_Play" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Bmqmpb9Xyjs/UYyIhMG5E3I/AAAAAAAAGyE/YAcBYCgfHSQ/s1600/twitter.png" width="45" /></a><a href="https://plus.google.com/u/0/113416249899539659575" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-44-9pseqqU4/UYyIgD7LORI/AAAAAAAAGxs/9dX88h__ySA/s1600/google%252B.png" width="45" /></a><a href="http://instagram.com/learnwithplayathome" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2fJM8P2Waec/UYyIgHDR4OI/AAAAAAAAGxw/p3Qh6jbkY3E/s1600/instagram.png" width="45" /></a><a href="mailto:learnwithplayathome@gmail.com" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jxw1Ykf18tU/UYyIgoSn7YI/AAAAAAAAGx0/h0Bdknuiv20/s1600/mail.png" width="45" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="color: #444444;">New Here? Subscribe to get all activities sent directly to you</span></b></div>
<form action="http://feedburner.google.com/fb/a/mailverify" method="post" onsubmit="window.open('http://feedburner.google.com/fb/a/mailverify?uri=LearnWithPlayHome', 'popupwindow', 'scrollbars=yes,width=550,height=520');return true" style="border: 1px solid #ccc; padding: 3px; text-align: center;" target="popupwindow">
Enter your email address:<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<input name="email" style="width: 140px;" type="text" /><br /></div>
<input name="uri" type="hidden" value="LearnWithPlayHome" /><input name="loc" type="hidden" value="en_US" /><input type="submit" value="Subscribe" /><br />
Delivered by <a href="http://feedburner.google.com/" target="_blank">FeedBurner</a></form>
Learn with Play at Homehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08323717740126935795noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6796821888191012398.post-9315997482342863132016-05-25T19:38:00.000+10:002016-05-25T19:38:52.282+10:00Robot Party<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8tHej58wPfg/Vz094KVyO6I/AAAAAAAAPh8/F3mfx-8U7VEjNfwxFsVdpQvsU28sj1MpgCKgB/s1600/Robot%2BParty.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8tHej58wPfg/Vz094KVyO6I/AAAAAAAAPh8/F3mfx-8U7VEjNfwxFsVdpQvsU28sj1MpgCKgB/s640/Robot%2BParty.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
For my son's 4th birthday party, we used a Robot theme, which was a lot of fun to both cater and decorate. So many simple DIY ideas. Here are some pictures from the day.<br />
<a name='more'></a><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-I1Non1kvcoo/Vz095F7QigI/AAAAAAAAPiM/TxpigoV8-LAc_ETYn0zkHmx6G4ErFZf3wCKgB/s1600/PA100888.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-I1Non1kvcoo/Vz095F7QigI/AAAAAAAAPiM/TxpigoV8-LAc_ETYn0zkHmx6G4ErFZf3wCKgB/s1600/PA100888.JPG" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Our favourite creation was our "Welcome Bot." He was made from some recycled boxes that we collected and then spray painted with silver paint. He certainly made an impact waiting at the front door and as each guest left at the end of the party, we got a photo of them posing with our Welcome Bot which made a lovely keepsake for us at the end of the party. (<i>Note: It's been approximately 7 months since we had this party and our robot is still in one piece in our house! It's been fun adding a Christmas hat at Christmas time, rabbit ears at Easter etc. Who knew having a cardboard robot could be so handy for all occasions?</i>) </div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1UcXwDFYIlI/Vz095rcPIQI/AAAAAAAAPh8/Uh5eX0HGDFIk5QRAO96b7mY6yZNYJZcoQCKgB/s640/PA101207.JPG" width="480" /></div>
Making simple decorations for a robot party was easy. You pretty much just need to add googly eyes and a mouth onto everything and hey presto, simple Robots everywhere!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-10sDsMMb5Zo/Vz096nsYnNI/AAAAAAAAPh8/Lt2aeqRZrI08NU70x7dm33AGqdWKZKgRACKgB/s640/PA100942.JPG" width="640" /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-gNoVaWVKbY4/Vz097g8B-gI/AAAAAAAAPh8/dI-jRHhrwkc4IIICfdnot2qwfcfubi9kQCKgB/s640/PA100943.JPG" width="640" /> </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8U8tgVMJZLA/Vz0988IN9mI/AAAAAAAAPh8/KXwD9-ovcDkk0MNc0oDy-Nc2Q6-tQekNACKgB/s640/PA100946.JPG" width="640" /></div>
<i>Hint: Knowing your party's theme as early as possible allows you to keep your eye out for any cheap materials or resources that you come across. A good friend of mine found some robot curtains at a ridiculous reduced rate ($2!) and had to buy them for me. They were used as the backdrops for the party food table and the goody-bag table.</i><br />
<br />
<h3>
Robot Themed Food</h3>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9krDxd3yQFo/Vz09-Cllg5I/AAAAAAAAPh8/cmxbbH2US4AocXP7Wf3ecJxz6sGeeLnmgCKgB/s1600/PA101021.JPG" /> </div>
<br />
If themed food is your thing but you don't want to spend hours making novelty food, simply displaying regular food in a thematic way and by renaming them can be a really easy option. For this party I bought a range of different sized foil trays and arranged them into a large robot shape. From head to toe we had:<br />
<ul>
<li><b>Nuts & Bolts</b> (Crispy addictive Aussie snack. I use <a href="http://www.taste.com.au/recipes/8048/nuts+and+bolts" target="_blank">this recipe</a> to make mine but with curry powder instead of the lemon pepper)</li>
<li><b>Robo Rolls</b> (sausage rolls)</li>
<li><b>Spring Rods</b> (spring rolls) </li>
<li><b>Pizza Cogs</b> (pizza wheels. Puff pastry spread with pizza ingredients, rolled, cut into wheels and baked)</li>
<li><b>Microchips</b> (Grain Waves and ruffled potato chips)</li>
<li><b>Cheesy Ball Bearings</b> (cheese and bacon balls)</li>
</ul>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SF51qy07un0/Vz09_JCuZfI/AAAAAAAAPh8/Ct3TvCiDEZEWbwjR1eHjBm6qky_GsR83ACKgB/s640/PA101001.JPG" width="640" /></div>
As I was having a few guests who only eat Gluten Free, I also made a little <b>Gluten Free Bot</b> with specific <b>gluten free savoury snacks</b>.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-RuZ0Md2R3Qk/Vz0-ACDcqGI/AAAAAAAAPh8/HnkHaKgv_VIQAa88Bj2UNmZtdGS-sLvngCKgB/s1600/PA100936.JPG" /></div>
I made these little cupcake toppers using a circle cutter, corrugated cardboard in silver and red and a packet of robot stickers.<br />Instead of regular cupcake liners, I kept with the theme and used little foil cups to pop the <b>cupcakes</b> in instead.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-kmWJJP_I9GQ/Vz0-BII8eyI/AAAAAAAAPh8/tw3kIBYEPU0Isr-wFx4wynk0G2aXs46TACKgB/s640/PA100926.JPG" width="640" /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1IgS-CSHkS8/Vz0-CBGroII/AAAAAAAAPh8/jXa1hZZxaTwE4EO_ZkMUf3jfCdytFSixACKgB/s1600/PA100940.JPG" /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-nx2NwzLYnCE/Vz0-C3tD40I/AAAAAAAAPh8/fPofOKc7JrgyJWnyzQaziYQD4pMHUfdZwCKgB/s640/PA100948.JPG" width="640" /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZIxKEBnj9eM/Vz0-D7x_pYI/AAAAAAAAPh8/3gOrOErBnt8ZFLXsiuZvjQxgyjc_-ZVUgCKgB/s640/PA100952.JPG" width="640" /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6RAMQ5P4uuQ/Vz0-E-Gi87I/AAAAAAAAPiE/j7v2O8N-tXEgv1U3Auq5HaGr9XYhaK9OgCKgB/s1600/PA100955.JPG" /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cgYffd7Freo/Vz0-FYhH-ZI/AAAAAAAAPiE/F6JNkQ0tvc07PD-WksQCm9MQVWaZGbtHwCKgB/s640/PA100968.JPG" width="640" /></div>
<br />
Other Sweets Included:<br />
<ul>
<li><b>"Wires"</b> (Red licorice) </li>
<li><b>"Battery Cells"</b> (I used sprinkle covered chocolate buttons but there are a number of different lollies you could use instead. Licorice bullets would be good too)</li>
<li><b>"LEDs"</b> (Coloured jubes) </li>
<li><b><b>Chocolate Bots</b><span style="font-weight: normal;"> (which were made simply from melting chocolate into a cheap robot mould.)</span></b></li>
</ul>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VriNvK_khfo/Vz0-GZh6kII/AAAAAAAAPiE/SPdyxwFIRzIQoTSmwY01y-7IE01P0gbXQCKgB/s1600/PA100975.JPG" /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gbNKVEVxO8s/Vz0-HAYRIvI/AAAAAAAAPiE/ofU61_T8H-EFk6mrxr_EwD2bkM-_375QwCKgB/s1600/PA100977.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gbNKVEVxO8s/Vz0-HAYRIvI/AAAAAAAAPiE/ofU61_T8H-EFk6mrxr_EwD2bkM-_375QwCKgB/s1600/PA100977.JPG" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-WoQ1meOGELI/Vz0-ICesHII/AAAAAAAAPiE/whGGV_ZibSkpDy85H4CBVcZlFhW0Kc4BgCKgB/s640/PA100983.JPG" width="640" /></div>
The <b>Fruit-bot </b>was a favourite of mine to make. A hollowed out watermelon full of fruit salad for the body and half a pineapple for the head. Nuts and bolts screwed into the watermelon made great arms and legs.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-rmOLKOe0iss/Vz0-JRqrfJI/AAAAAAAAPiE/Ok1-Pt7Dnto9Qmm4htc_Y56KTNNh38-jwCKgB/s640/PA101023.JPG" width="640" /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-QXgu6cSVyb8/Vz0-KGtgLUI/AAAAAAAAPiE/9fTB6yF8TxsYKdo4RhrmQsrCMMk1h2G3QCKgB/s1600/PA101004.JPG" /></div>
<h3 style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br />The Robot Cake</h3>
<div>
<i><br /></i>
<i>"I want an ice-cream and icy-pole robot cake"<br />"Ooooook!"</i><br />
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-pQSV3uyk-04/Vz0-Maqfh4I/AAAAAAAAPiE/q757iqiSMWMvxR9gSb1ItT4SqxO1vUTUACKgB/s1600/PA101126.JPG" /></div>
<br />
The brief for this cake came from the birthday boy himself and I wasn't sure how or if it would actually eventuate. The cake was probably my biggest triumph as it first seemed like an impossible task but all came together well on the day. The biggest challenge was not being able to assemble it until right before serving, so it wasn't until then that I actually knew what it was going to look like. I knew what I hoped it would look like but I couldn't be sure of the end result.<br /><br />To make the cake I crushed up a whole lot of different lollies and chocolates and mixed them into vanilla ice cream. I put the mixed ice-cream into two square tins lined in plastic wrap and crossed my fingers that it would work. I used some fondant to make some decorations for the robot and then quickly placed it all together, with icy poles for arms and legs, onto a foil covered board, right before serving. I thought he looked pretty cute in end. <i>(Note: If you're having icypoles, be sure to have enough for all kids as most of them will want one!)</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="500" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cNfKupr7XcQ/Vz0-N4yM6KI/AAAAAAAAPiE/Fawj_IvyBEUp6BBR0LQTmIZw1zF621DmQCKgB/s640/robot%2Bcake.png" width="640" /></div>
<h3>
<br /></h3>
<h3>
Activities</h3>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I'm not really a fan of having many activities that require a lot of structure or organisation during the party, but instead like to have a number of open-ended, more independent activities available that children can come and go from as they please. For this party I set up:</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<ul>
<li><b>Robot Bowling</b> (using a cheap set I bought, or alternatively you could make your own from recycled bottles or boxes)</li>
<li><b>Robot Colouring</b> (I printed off a bunch of different robot designs found via a quick <a href="https://www.google.com.au/search?q=free+robot+colouring+sheets&rls=com.microsoft:en-US:%7Breferrer:source%3F%7D&rlz=1I7SKPT_en&source=lnms&tbm=isch&sa=X&ved=0ahUKEwjU2o-Y6fTMAhWE5aYKHSeNBaAQ_AUIBygB&biw=1439&bih=731" target="_blank">Google search</a> and provided them with various colouring materials)</li>
<li><b>Build-A-Robot</b> (using our <a href="http://www.learnwithplayathome.com/2014/04/fort-magic-kit-review-and-giveaway.html" target="_blank">Fort Magic</a> set, children were encouraged to build their own robots. You could do this same activity using recycled materials instead)</li>
<li><b>Robot Dance-off</b> (this was the one organised activity where the kids played "statues" to funky music. All dancing was in Robot style (naturally!) and when the music was paused, the robots had to freeze. As each robot went out, they chose a little gift from our party box and the last "robots" left in won a prize of a <a href="http://micador.com.au/Product/2906/Micador-Air-Clay-Robots-Kit" target="_blank">build-your-own wind-up robot</a>.) </li>
</ul>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-o_50J6AiuQU/Vz0-O_uVh5I/AAAAAAAAPg0/8zn04XH5bzwzF3kWC5G1mkWFGFUV_YCgQCKgB/s640/PA100819.JPG" width="640" /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-FCxaNdWDAxw/Vz0-QUzlx9I/AAAAAAAAPiE/OKkc4kysxlA4-14_yRpGgZd0P-Ao1AIDgCKgB/s640/robot%2Bbowling.png" width="640" /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-a9Wur7AfJLo/Vz0-Redv6sI/AAAAAAAAPg8/fsc8kwpuM98s3nUGc3OoTCNi1jOOe-o9wCKgB/s640/PA100855.JPG" width="640" /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-fgJCiSIj1lc/Vz0-SqIEG4I/AAAAAAAAPiE/Orh1MrO5kqshjg_-ZLSHXk_tKbp3e0XKQCKgB/s640/PA100858.JPG" width="640" /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1wXYjRDafJs/Vz0-TYZocyI/AAAAAAAAPiE/wtaXI-8N6RoSA1P2Gg8N421BqJX31kJ9ACKgB/s640/PA101077.JPG" width="640" /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-68oBWiy0ejc/Vz0-UbBKqoI/AAAAAAAAPiE/VB7R37EBzegmMFh4B5fS6w6nwCdk0CTDACKgB/s1600/PA100864.JPG" /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-QukoQ5Z2ENk/Vz0-WR50thI/AAAAAAAAPiE/y6uGo8ifotMX03l-WyNtGXahRFFUDrEKACKgB/s640/robot%2Bbuilding.png" width="640" /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-p2VzQn5CwPI/Vz0-XV1hdXI/AAAAAAAAPiE/qaNk4O0E07k9mUGjTP2sXRZCQ1fBZGzNACKgB/s640/PA101065.JPG" width="640" /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-rTE-udJlLD8/Vz0-YmTs8LI/AAAAAAAAPiE/bLDHPR-1FgEAF6OX3N_5VYXtNziuppTzgCKgB/s1600/PA101104.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-rTE-udJlLD8/Vz0-YmTs8LI/AAAAAAAAPiE/bLDHPR-1FgEAF6OX3N_5VYXtNziuppTzgCKgB/s640/PA101104.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-d01BXR44m0s/Vz0-ZIUJFvI/AAAAAAAAPhY/EKoAljecodkgMWgg7Kcve6iQYt5_Qm0wACKgB/s640/PA100853.JPG" width="640" /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="360" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-kpFLTfYoxXs/Vz0-Z7pUALI/AAAAAAAAPiE/oXJkzOdFl2sk5ot-iDUhg8RV31j8KA_owCKgB/s640/PA101109.JPG" width="640" /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<h3 style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Take Home Gifts</h3>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
For the take-home gifts, I gave each child a mason jar glass "robot head" filled with bits and bobs. I try not to send too much candy home as there's usually plenty of sweets consumed at the party itself. I found that the $2 shops tended to have plenty of little robot themed goodies.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-veLeNNflGVM/Vz0-a2AWEfI/AAAAAAAAPhg/ZRP0TxnLlg8jgAg6q-kwUIFWhFEjz3aDgCKgB/s640/PA100821.JPG" width="640" /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Y7h_oF0z1Tc/Vz0-cIY0ssI/AAAAAAAAPiE/5hlrjwo9bfUKrLLnWurMy5MtfClaV6SvACKgB/s640/PA100915.JPG" width="640" /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-BBfoQ__YTmw/Vz0-cwHQlXI/AAAAAAAAPho/sIskdb0d9DQ_5M8L62SKlg2_JCEkCg20QCKgB/s640/PA100828.JPG" width="640" /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sJj69PONZ2I/Vz0-d9vbWbI/AAAAAAAAPhs/82ubggzlQpgmJexuUKTlItVA5RAmRwSyACKgB/s640/PA100829.JPG" width="640" /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5dGGKdQBv_Y/Vz0-ex-0gcI/AAAAAAAAPhw/xnk_GxKxxcMmc_ZHfEAj_-ISiwobXh57QCKgB/s640/PA100850.JPG" width="640" /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lKu55CVbwPw/Vz0-fjfMtYI/AAAAAAAAPiE/j_OJt6nKIqYhv3yzZgI67qHOKuWSXyEIgCKgB/s640/PA100924.JPG" width="640" /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WZPUMnqKpPQ/Vz0-g9tFA6I/AAAAAAAAPiE/2JqKkNMAZSQsJJfuKCPw4WVDBsUKitBlgCKgB/s640/PA100921.JPG" width="640" /></div>
<br />
<br />
<b>Here are some more awesome Robot Party ideas from around the web for more inspiration</b>:<br />
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.google.com.au/url?sa=t&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=web&cd=1&cad=rja&uact=8&ved=0ahUKEwi3r9LPw-zMAhWCFJQKHWNjBkcQFggcMAA&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpagingfunmums.com%2F2013%2F08%2F06%2Fthe-ultimate-robot-party-full-diy-tutorials%2F&usg=AFQjCNEv9vVUU7nYoDMWn7lD1qY-vAjO8g&sig2=fsG41DkmKa5bYhI3zR0o6w" target="_blank">Robot Party by Paging Fun Mums</a></li>
<li><a href="http://spaceshipsandlaserbeams.com/robot-birthday-party-ideas" target="_blank">100s of Robot Party Ideas compiled by Spaceships and Laserbeams</a></li>
</ul>
<div>
<b><br /></b>
<b>Here are some of our other birthday party posts</b>:</div>
<div>
<ul>
<li style="margin: 0px 0px 0.25em; padding: 0px;"><a href="http://www.learnwithplayathome.com/2015/01/where-is-green-sheep-childrens-birthday.html" target="_blank">Where is the Green Sheep? Party</a></li>
<li style="margin: 0px 0px 0.25em; padding: 0px;"><a href="http://www.learnwithplayathome.com/2014/02/ideas-for-art-party-win-art-supplies.html" style="color: #0eb098; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">Art Party</a></li>
<li style="margin: 0px 0px 0.25em; padding: 0px;"><a href="http://www.learnwithplayathome.com/2013/11/dinosaur-party-ideas.html" style="color: #0eb098; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">Dinosaur Party</a></li>
<li style="margin: 0px 0px 0.25em; padding: 0px;"><a href="http://www.learnwithplayathome.com/2013/02/alphabet-party.html" style="color: #0eb098; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">Alphabet Party</a></li>
<li style="margin: 0px 0px 0.25em; padding: 0px;"><a href="http://www.learnwithplayathome.com/2012/10/very-hungry-caterpillar-party.html" style="color: #0eb098; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">Very Hungry Caterpillar Party</a></li>
<li style="margin: 0px 0px 0.25em; padding: 0px;"><a href="http://www.learnwithplayathome.com/2012/05/rainbow-birthday-party-ideas.html" style="color: #0eb098; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">Rainbow Party</a></li>
<li style="margin: 0px 0px 0.25em; padding: 0px;"><a href="http://www.learnwithplayathome.com/2012/05/butterfly-birthday-party-ideas.html" style="color: #0eb098; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">Butterfly Party</a></li>
</ul>
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
Happy playing,</div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<div style="text-align: left;">
<b><span style="font-size: large;">Debs :)</span></b></div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></b>
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="color: #0b5394;">Look where else we are. Are you following along? :)</span></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/learnwithplayathome" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vkHOFWBJK4o/UYyIgOBU9wI/AAAAAAAAGxo/RvuMjfHQ8L0/s1600/facebook.png" width="45" /></a><a href="http://pinterest.com/debstar4/" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Q4D1znEaQ1o/UYyIhLF1kZI/AAAAAAAAGyA/_ZtdQ6RKoXo/s1600/pinterest.png" width="45" /></a><a href="https://twitter.com/Learn_with_Play" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Bmqmpb9Xyjs/UYyIhMG5E3I/AAAAAAAAGyE/YAcBYCgfHSQ/s1600/twitter.png" width="45" /></a><a href="https://plus.google.com/u/0/113416249899539659575" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-44-9pseqqU4/UYyIgD7LORI/AAAAAAAAGxs/9dX88h__ySA/s1600/google%252B.png" width="45" /></a><a href="http://instagram.com/learnwithplayathome" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2fJM8P2Waec/UYyIgHDR4OI/AAAAAAAAGxw/p3Qh6jbkY3E/s1600/instagram.png" width="45" /></a><a href="mailto:learnwithplayathome@gmail.com" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jxw1Ykf18tU/UYyIgoSn7YI/AAAAAAAAGx0/h0Bdknuiv20/s1600/mail.png" width="45" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="color: #444444;">New Here? Subscribe to get all activities sent directly to you</span></b></div>
<form action="http://feedburner.google.com/fb/a/mailverify" method="post" onsubmit="window.open('http://feedburner.google.com/fb/a/mailverify?uri=LearnWithPlayHome', 'popupwindow', 'scrollbars=yes,width=550,height=520');return true" style="border: 1px solid #ccc; padding: 3px; text-align: center;" target="popupwindow">
Enter your email address:<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<input name="email" style="width: 140px;" type="text" /><br /></div>
<input name="uri" type="hidden" value="LearnWithPlayHome" /><input name="loc" type="hidden" value="en_US" /><input type="submit" value="Subscribe" /><br />
Delivered by <a href="http://feedburner.google.com/" target="_blank">FeedBurner</a></form>
Learn with Play at Homehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08323717740126935795noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6796821888191012398.post-22615504521931791382016-04-26T20:16:00.001+10:002016-05-18T18:00:21.555+10:00Mothers Day activity for Kids. Art and Literacy combined<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-QJSt_qYUq-I/Vx7cABaUObI/AAAAAAAAPeg/7LCN2KfHXcg1SxaG_T7g_lGdBfq92imogCKgB/s640/Mothers%2BDay%2Blit%2Band%2Bart.png" width="448" /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
With <b>Mother's Day</b> coming up for another year, we took advantage of the opportunity to delve into some <b>language learning </b>and make a special <b>keepsake for Mum</b> at the same time.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
(<i>I did find doing this activity a little amusing as I was doing it with my own children. We used the word Mum in the example but talked about how we could substitute in "Nana" or "Grandma" and make a gift for them)</i>.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<a name='more'></a><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-nn5X6vfOTvA/Vx7WsOMDtaI/AAAAAAAAPeM/8Dj5FmMkzn0qW-wPsFqTQpi1a6Tey8UaACKgB/s1600/P4250132.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-nn5X6vfOTvA/Vx7WsOMDtaI/AAAAAAAAPeM/8Dj5FmMkzn0qW-wPsFqTQpi1a6Tey8UaACKgB/s640/P4250132.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9SRrjcg8jVw/Vx7Ws77_kKI/AAAAAAAAPeU/e0Gc4y6ErhAvGzivt03kxRite_n954vpgCKgB/s1600/P4250134.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9SRrjcg8jVw/Vx7Ws77_kKI/AAAAAAAAPeU/e0Gc4y6ErhAvGzivt03kxRite_n954vpgCKgB/s640/P4250134.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
To start the activity we had a <b>brainstorm</b> of all the different words that came to mind when we heard the word, "mum."</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
This was great for <b>developing language</b> and <b>increasing our vocabulary</b>. Many words made us think about other related words and we took the opportunity to learn more about <b>grammar</b> as we discussed whether the words were <b>nouns, verbs or adjectives </b>(<i>best for ages 6-7+</i>).</div>
<b><br />For example: </b><br />
<br />
<b>Nouns</b> (people, place, thing, event, object): Mother, family, friend, nurse, driver, Super Mum, Mama, role model, etc.<br />
<br />
<b>Adjectives</b> (descriptive words): strong, beautiful, brave, loving, amazing, cool, funny, etc.<br />
<br />
<b>Verbs</b> (actions or “doing” words): love, help, kiss, trust, hug, teach, etc.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
We found that the majority of the words that were thought of were adjectives, especially when considering the sentence, "My Mum is..." which can be a good starting point if children are stuck. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
We also discovered that many words can be altered slightly to change a verb into an adjective, such as love & loving, help & helpful, etc.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Brainstorming and writing the words together on a whiteboard gave us the opportunity to work on <b>spelling and handwriting</b> (with my 7y/o) and <b>letter sounds and letter recognition</b> (with my 4y/o).</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
When we had enough words, we decided to <b>turn these words (or our favourites) into a keepsake</b>, using a favourite art method, <b>oil pastel and water-colour resist</b>.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-H0qZrzCq81s/Vx7Wt8UJRnI/AAAAAAAAPeU/O9fPwJNBlzIXtqsNnHzFeYAlU5Eku1OpQCKgB/s1600/P4250137.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-H0qZrzCq81s/Vx7Wt8UJRnI/AAAAAAAAPeU/O9fPwJNBlzIXtqsNnHzFeYAlU5Eku1OpQCKgB/s640/P4250137.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b>Materials</b></div>
<ul>
<li>Watercolour paper (<i>for best results </i>- <i>otherwise regular thicker paper will work too</i>)</li>
<li>Watercolour paints</li>
<li>Oil pastel (<i>we used white which provides an extra challenge. You can use any colour)</i></li>
<li>Water and brushes</li>
</ul>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-j2mvaQoE_WQ/Vx7WueMK6uI/AAAAAAAAPeU/7YjfyBV2D04GtFnxsxW6jf9wQsvCU1IPACKgB/s640/P4250139.JPG" width="640" /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Start by writing the word "MUM" (or Nanna, Grandma, etc.) in the centre of your piece of paper, using your oil pastel. <i>We loved the surprise reveal by using the white oil pastel but some children may find it too frustrating or difficult to write without seeing clearly what they are writing.</i> Any oil pastel colour you use will repel the watercolour paint over the top. You could use a variety of different colours. Let the children decide for themselves.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-59FKlcY6vX4/Vx7WvL_4nkI/AAAAAAAAPeU/Tc-tgoBYutcZ8BZRtoz0KDjU_O_qjCVxACKgB/s640/P4250143.JPG" width="640" /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
When you've finished writing your words about mum, paint over the top with watercolour paint. You may need to go over it couple of times to get the vibrancy that you want. (The more water you use, the less vibrant it will be. The less water you use, the more vibrant the colour will be). You can use a watercolour pallet, liquid watercolours or even just some food colour in water.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wx8wDBtVy-w/Vx7WwCBHGBI/AAAAAAAAPeU/XB-VZvIpMz4XJd1nfGZdb_d760O0l3lUACKgB/s640/P4250157.JPG" width="640" /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
We found that the more vibrant the colours, the more the words stood out on the page. Let your creation dry and then pop it in a frame for a beautiful creative and personalised gift for mum (or grandma).</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<b>Handy Tips:</b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
- <b>Simplify</b> for younger children by only focusing their artwork on one word from their brainstormed list, along with the word, Mum (or Mother/Grandmother etc.) Assist them to write the word where needed or instead try a sticker-resist painting by sticking letter stickers of their chosen word/s on paper or canvas, painting over with water-colour and then carefully peeling the stickers off.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
- <b>Extend</b> this activity by:</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
</div>
<ul>
<li> Encouraging children to sound-out and spell the words themselves. If they can't figure out how to spell them, where can they look? (Hint: the dictionary!)</li>
<li>Using a thesaurus to look up synonyms to further the brainstormed list and extend their vocabulary </li>
<li>Attempting to think up a word for each letter of the alphabet.</li>
</ul>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
- <b>Mix it up</b> by:</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
</div>
<ul>
<li>Painting on canvas instead of paper</li>
<li>Using coloured chalks and pastel on black paper</li>
<li>Writing huge "bubble" type letters for "MUM" using the whole page and then writing your chosen words inside</li>
<li>Using different styles and fonts for the words on your masterpiece</li>
</ul>
<br />
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">- Check out more ideas for <b>Mother's Day</b> below</span><br />
<ul>
<li><a href="http://www.learnwithplayathome.com/2013/05/10-kid-made-mothers-day-gift-ideas.html">Kid Made Mother's Day gift ideas</a></li>
</ul>
<div>
<br /></div>
- <b>Buy a special gift for mum and support childhood literacy at the same time!</b><br />
<br />
As someone passionate about education for all, I'm honoured to be an <a href="https://www.ownaword.org.au/ambassadors/" target="_blank">Ambassador</a> for the Ardoch Youth Foundation's Own A Word campaign. For just $25 you can <a href="https://www.ownaword.org.au/" target="_blank">buy your Mum or Grandma one of your favourite words that best describes her </a>or how you feel about her, giving her something really unique whilst at the same time helping provide support for childhood literacy and language development in some of Australia’s most disadvantaged communities.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<div style="text-align: left;">
Happy playing,</div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<div style="text-align: left;">
<b><span style="font-size: large;">Debs :)</span></b></div>
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="color: #0b5394;">Look where else we are. Are you following along? :)</span></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/learnwithplayathome" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vkHOFWBJK4o/UYyIgOBU9wI/AAAAAAAAGxo/RvuMjfHQ8L0/s1600/facebook.png" width="45" /></a><a href="http://pinterest.com/debstar4/" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Q4D1znEaQ1o/UYyIhLF1kZI/AAAAAAAAGyA/_ZtdQ6RKoXo/s1600/pinterest.png" width="45" /></a><a href="https://twitter.com/Learn_with_Play" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Bmqmpb9Xyjs/UYyIhMG5E3I/AAAAAAAAGyE/YAcBYCgfHSQ/s1600/twitter.png" width="45" /></a><a href="https://plus.google.com/u/0/113416249899539659575" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-44-9pseqqU4/UYyIgD7LORI/AAAAAAAAGxs/9dX88h__ySA/s1600/google%252B.png" width="45" /></a><a href="http://instagram.com/learnwithplayathome" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2fJM8P2Waec/UYyIgHDR4OI/AAAAAAAAGxw/p3Qh6jbkY3E/s1600/instagram.png" width="45" /></a><a href="mailto:learnwithplayathome@gmail.com" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jxw1Ykf18tU/UYyIgoSn7YI/AAAAAAAAGx0/h0Bdknuiv20/s1600/mail.png" width="45" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="color: #444444;">New Here? Subscribe to get all activities sent directly to you</span></b></div>
<form action="http://feedburner.google.com/fb/a/mailverify" method="post" onsubmit="window.open('http://feedburner.google.com/fb/a/mailverify?uri=LearnWithPlayHome', 'popupwindow', 'scrollbars=yes,width=550,height=520');return true" style="border: 1px solid #ccc; padding: 3px; text-align: center;" target="popupwindow">
Enter your email address:<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<input name="email" style="width: 140px;" type="text" /><br /></div>
<input name="uri" type="hidden" value="LearnWithPlayHome" /><input name="loc" type="hidden" value="en_US" /><input type="submit" value="Subscribe" /><br />
Delivered by <a href="http://feedburner.google.com/" target="_blank">FeedBurner</a></form>
Learn with Play at Homehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08323717740126935795noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6796821888191012398.post-80794256309351731752016-03-01T15:04:00.000+11:002016-05-18T18:00:34.008+10:00SumBlox. Amazing hands-on maths tool for kids<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cW3a2GqVYSU/VtOdNE_Y_BI/AAAAAAAAPWw/7-HS1ISb7bg/s640/amazing%2Bsumblox%2Bfor%2Bmath.png" width="448" /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Introducing, <b><a href="http://www.finleeandme.com.au/product/sumblox-wooden-blocks-for-kids-number-block-educational-set/" rel="" target="_blank">SumBlox</a></b>! The beautifully designed and crafted wooden block set that allows children to <b>explore and learn more about numbers and their relationships in a hands-on, concrete </b>(and most importantly, <b>fun</b>)<b> way.</b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
It is safe to say that as a teacher, great resources that <b>help and encourage children to learn through play</b>, excite me greatly. When I first laid my eyes on SumBlox, (which have only recently been introduced to the Australian market) I was immediately drawn to the incredibly clever, yet simple concept, that <b>combines children's love of building and physically manipulating materials, with a number of different mathematical concepts</b>. What a fabulous <b>maths teaching tool</b>!</div>
<a name='more'></a><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="446" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UxkL17TEAxA/VtOdOudbfRI/AAAAAAAAPWw/oCMVLK0Ifjs/s640/P1150033.JPG" width="640" /></div>
<br />
Included in the set, are 43 beautifully crafted hardwood blocks, featuring the numbers 1 to 10, that <b>increase in size as the value of the number increases</b>. The most wonderful thing about these blocks is that they have been designed specifically to be able to stack on top of one another and equal one another in both size and value exactly. So, the 5 block is exactly half the size of the 10 block and if you stacked a 2 block and a 3 block together, they equal the same height as the number 5 block. Clever!<br />
<br />
<img border="0" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CtgW0IIs4sM/VtOdQF6mGGI/AAAAAAAAPWw/fsH5TYFl3_g/s640/P1150036.JPG" width="640" /><br />
<br />
As demonstrated above, 6 and 3 together are equal to (or, the same as) 9. This is where simple concepts of maths, from <b>addition and subtraction, through to multiplication, division and even fractions </b>can be explored in this both visual and tactile way.<br />
<br />
<h3>
<b>Beginning with the basics for younger children.</b> </h3>
<br />
SumBlox are great for helping children with <b>identifying and recognising numbers</b>. The smooth, solid wooden blocks feel great to manipulate and hold and are perfect for <b>grouping/sorting/classifying </b>and <b>ordering</b>.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fJroAINahug/VtOdPeMrYII/AAAAAAAAPWw/15oRVt11FDo/s640/P1150058.JPG" width="640" /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
With my 4 year old, we explored which number block represented which value. He kept turning the 9 upside down and telling me it was a 6. This allowed us to take a better look at the <b>size</b> of the two similar shaped blocks and talk about one being a "bigger" number than the other (both in physical size in this sense and in terms of representing a larger amount). To further demonstrate this, we counted out 6 little lego squares and built a tower. We then did the same with 9 lego squares and talked about which was bigger. This helped us to <b>identify which block represented which number (and value).</b><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-o2gqGXLEnSQ/VtOdRaE10sI/AAAAAAAAPW0/leP83b-Mp_0/s1600/P1150043.JPG" /></div>
<br />
At this younger age, as well as <b>number recognition</b>, <b>counting, sorting/classifying</b> and <b>informal measurement</b>, I would focus more on <b>building and general play</b> with the blocks. Allow children to develop a natural curiosity about what the blocks symbolise and to start to make their own realisations such as, <b>the bigger the block gets, the larger value it represents </b>and <b>combining certain blocks makes the size (and therefore value) equal to one another. </b>eg. a 2 block stacked on a 3 block is the same size as a 5 block.<br />
<br />
<h3>
Further learning/teaching opportunities</h3>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8FHQBzZe4f0/VtOdTPNVt3I/AAAAAAAAPW0/4uBLnypZVkU/s1600/maths%2Bwith%2Bsumblox.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8FHQBzZe4f0/VtOdTPNVt3I/AAAAAAAAPW0/4uBLnypZVkU/s640/maths%2Bwith%2Bsumblox.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-fmNOPqdQOmw/VtOdUFD0yII/AAAAAAAAPW0/27jen4cVyZc/s640/P1150062.JPG" width="640" /></div>
<br />
Older children who are already familiar with and can recognise numbers can build upon their existing knowledge and test out what they know in a physical, hands-on way.<br />
For <b>addition</b>, children can build and experiment with combinations and then record their findings. My 7 year old was all over this without any instruction!<br />
<br />
<div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-wvgepmm5CMw/VtOdVUSq7CI/AAAAAAAAPW0/G-ceAye5eqU/s640/P2170017.JPG" width="640" /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4_oEpmeqlZ4/VtOdW45j7AI/AAAAAAAAPW0/DLQoP8htvWg/s640/P2170018.JPG" width="640" /></div>
<br />
Learning and understanding the combination of numbers that <b>make up to 10 </b>is important for children and the SumBlox are just brilliant for this. The skill to "<b>make to ten</b>" helps children to understand our <b>Base 10</b> <b>Decimal System</b> and aids with <b>mental addition, subtraction and further mathematical concepts down the track</b>.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="440" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3XR5SXdMmoQ/VtOdYnJqDxI/AAAAAAAAPW0/SN0J_z1Evno/s640/sumblox%2B.png" width="640" /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Ifiqp_6dpls/VtOdaAApBfI/AAAAAAAAPW0/jJj9Mpq9AAI/s640/P2170042.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="640" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Exploring fact families. 8 + 1 = 9 , 4 + 5 = 9 , 6 + 3 = 9 , 9 - 3 = 6 , 9 - 6 = 3 , 9 - 4 = 5 and so on.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-cOWWq_FXPqQ/VtOdbbYnR1I/AAAAAAAAPW0/-Huz6R5c3yc/s1600/P2170043.JPG" /></div>
Often our buildings ended up very symmetrical which was interesting to talk about.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-W0smwx4SmVc/VtOdcXMILBI/AAAAAAAAPW0/_Vs3wJY7s0A/s1600/P2170045.JPG" /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WGZPdUodYy0/VtOdduSU0mI/AAAAAAAAPW0/FoM4u9HsTHE/s1600/P2170047.JPG" /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b>Building Games: </b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<ul>
<li>How tall can you build with them? </li>
<li>Can you add up all the numbers to find the total value of your construction? </li>
<li>What's the highest value tower you can build? </li>
<li>What is the lowest/least value tower you can build that is equal to your height? etc.</li>
</ul>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rgJGqxCKEsM/VtOdeWeeU5I/AAAAAAAAPW8/Vc8nTJjCyPM/s1600/P2170053.JPG" /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<ul>
<li><b>Challenge</b> children to build a tower of a certain value! (eg, a building that had a value of 30)</li>
<li>Or with every level equalling 10. etc.</li>
</ul>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
For <b>multiplication</b>, the SumBlox are fabulous for demonstrating how groups of numbers work and how many of each number is required to make a certain value. You can quickly see that things like <i>2 groups of 3</i> (or <i>2 x 3</i> or <i>two "3's"</i>) is equal in value (and height) to <i>3 groups of 2</i> (or <i>3 x 2</i> or <i>three "2's"</i>) and that both are just <b>repeated addition</b>, equalling <i>6</i>. This goes hand-in-hand with concepts of <b>division</b> where children can see that (in the above example) <i>6 divided by 3 is 2 </i>and that <i>6 divided by 3 is 2</i>.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-00d0jaG6imc/VtOdfYZEwtI/AAAAAAAAPW0/sVyxVvSb7EQ/s1600/sumblox%2Binfo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="408" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-00d0jaG6imc/VtOdfYZEwtI/AAAAAAAAPW0/sVyxVvSb7EQ/s640/sumblox%2Binfo.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
We've not used the SumBlox for <b>fractions</b> yet (as we're not quite at that stage) and whilst I can see that they could be good for helping children to see what needs to be done in order to obtain a <b>common denominator </b>(which is needed in order to add fractions together), and to demonstrate that whatever you do to the bottom number (the denominator), you have to do the same to the top number (the numerator) in order to retain the same value, I'm not totally convinced (yet) that this is the best way to explore fractions. It feels a little clunky and potentially confusing, however, once children are at the stage of understanding fractions enough to start adding together fractions without a common denominator, then it's likely that this different approach to manipulating the numbers could well help some children with understanding the concept. I think it would go hand in hand with demonstrating how it's traditionally done on paper.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-mbpTxGkho9Q/VtOdg2SP9nI/AAAAAAAAPW0/OSC7gapMOk4/s1600/IMG_2077.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-mbpTxGkho9Q/VtOdg2SP9nI/AAAAAAAAPW0/OSC7gapMOk4/s640/IMG_2077.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">To see more of our adventures with SumBlox as well as other ways we play and learn, <a href="http://instagram.com/learnwithplayathome" target="_blank">follow us on Instagram</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
To purchase your set of SumBlox, head to <a href="http://www.finleeandme.com.au/product/sumblox-wooden-blocks-for-kids-number-block-educational-set/" target="_blank">Finlee and Me</a>. These really are an incredible resource for teachers and homeschoolers that allow children to truly<b> play</b> with and <b>understand numbers and their relationships </b>like never before.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<div style="text-align: left;">
Happy playing,</div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<div style="text-align: left;">
<b><span style="font-size: large;">Debs :)</span></b></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<b><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></b></div>
{Disclosure: I was sent a set of SumBlox by <a href="http://finleeandme.com.au/" target="_blank">Finlee and Me</a> in order to review them. I was not paid to write this post and all opinions are my own or my childrens'.}</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></b>
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="color: #0b5394;">Look where else we are. Are you following along? :)</span></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/learnwithplayathome" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vkHOFWBJK4o/UYyIgOBU9wI/AAAAAAAAGxo/RvuMjfHQ8L0/s1600/facebook.png" width="45" /></a><a href="http://pinterest.com/debstar4/" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Q4D1znEaQ1o/UYyIhLF1kZI/AAAAAAAAGyA/_ZtdQ6RKoXo/s1600/pinterest.png" width="45" /></a><a href="https://twitter.com/Learn_with_Play" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Bmqmpb9Xyjs/UYyIhMG5E3I/AAAAAAAAGyE/YAcBYCgfHSQ/s1600/twitter.png" width="45" /></a><a href="https://plus.google.com/u/0/113416249899539659575" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-44-9pseqqU4/UYyIgD7LORI/AAAAAAAAGxs/9dX88h__ySA/s1600/google%252B.png" width="45" /></a><a href="http://instagram.com/learnwithplayathome" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2fJM8P2Waec/UYyIgHDR4OI/AAAAAAAAGxw/p3Qh6jbkY3E/s1600/instagram.png" width="45" /></a><a href="mailto:learnwithplayathome@gmail.com" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jxw1Ykf18tU/UYyIgoSn7YI/AAAAAAAAGx0/h0Bdknuiv20/s1600/mail.png" width="45" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="color: #444444;">New Here? Subscribe to get all activities sent directly to you</span></b></div>
<form action="http://feedburner.google.com/fb/a/mailverify" method="post" onsubmit="window.open('http://feedburner.google.com/fb/a/mailverify?uri=LearnWithPlayHome', 'popupwindow', 'scrollbars=yes,width=550,height=520');return true" style="border: 1px solid #ccc; padding: 3px; text-align: center;" target="popupwindow">
Enter your email address:<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<input name="email" style="width: 140px;" type="text" /><br /></div>
<input name="uri" type="hidden" value="LearnWithPlayHome" /><input name="loc" type="hidden" value="en_US" /><input type="submit" value="Subscribe" /><br />
Delivered by <a href="http://feedburner.google.com/" target="_blank">FeedBurner</a></form>
</div>
Learn with Play at Homehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08323717740126935795noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6796821888191012398.post-4865515577954346922016-02-22T09:33:00.000+11:002020-07-18T12:35:39.953+10:0010 Awesome Free Printables for Kids at home and in the classroomI love printables, especially FREE ones! It's amazing the fun, games, learning, organising and/or decorating that can be had from something that starts as a simple piece of paper with some ink on it.<br />
<div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Fm54sXJyZDw/VskggFdrcbI/AAAAAAAAPDE/SLvyN7QYz5k/s1600/10%2Bfree%2Bprintables%2Bfor%2Bkids%2Bhome%2Band%2Bclassroom.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Fm54sXJyZDw/VskggFdrcbI/AAAAAAAAPDE/SLvyN7QYz5k/s640/10%2Bfree%2Bprintables%2Bfor%2Bkids%2Bhome%2Band%2Bclassroom.png" width="448" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: right;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<br />
I have an awesome <a href="https://www.pinterest.com/debstar4/free-printables/" target="_blank">Free Printable Pinterest board</a>, (followed by over 190,000 people!) which is full of fabulous <b>free printable ideas</b> from <b>learning games</b> and clever crafts to wall art and kids birthday supplies. There's something for everyone! To save you a bit of time going through the 6,000+ free printables collected on the board, here's a list of 10 of my very favourites! (You will find that most of these sites have other fabulous free printables that you'll want to check out too!)<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a data-pin-board-width="400" data-pin-do="embedBoard" data-pin-scale-height="200" data-pin-scale-width="80" href="https://www.pinterest.com/debstar4/free-printables/"> Follow Learn with Play at Home's board Free Printables on Pinterest.</a><!-- Please call pinit.js only once per page --><script async="" src="//assets.pinterest.com/js/pinit.js" type="text/javascript"></script>
<br />
<br />
<a name='more'></a></div>
<h2>
</h2>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xjvwAdyzdZE/VskgdTRsZzI/AAAAAAAAPDE/4mCDgD9ZT88/s1600/P2190085.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xjvwAdyzdZE/VskgdTRsZzI/AAAAAAAAPDE/4mCDgD9ZT88/s640/P2190085.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Free room art printable from <a href="http://www.chickadeeartandco.com/free-printables/" target="_blank">Chickadee Art and Co</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div>
<br /></div>
<h2>
10 favourite free printables for kids</h2>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PoRgUITQsKE/Vsk0HI9EC_I/AAAAAAAAPDQ/y8Ts083Lir0/s1600/free%2Bprintables%2Bfor%2Bkids%2B1-5.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PoRgUITQsKE/Vsk0HI9EC_I/AAAAAAAAPDQ/y8Ts083Lir0/s640/free%2Bprintables%2Bfor%2Bkids%2B1-5.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<b>1) <a href="http://www.chickadeeartandco.com/free-printables/" target="_blank">Free Room-Art Printables for kids</a></b> from <i>Chickadee Art and Co</i><br />
<br />
These guys have a gorgeous range of printables and many lovely free designs! I love including extra words and pictures in my children's rooms and in the classroom to help promote a print rich environment. Click over and find your favourites <a href="http://www.chickadeeartandco.com/free-printables/" target="_blank">here</a>.<br />
<br />
<b>2) <a href="http://picklebums.com/writing-prompts-for-kids/" target="_blank">Free Printable Writing Prompts</a></b> for kids from <i>Picklebums</i><br />
<br />
Not all children have a great desire to write. In fact, for some children, it can be difficult to persuade them to want to write at all, and we're all well aware that in order to become accomplished at a task, we need to practice! Sometimes, writing prompts can be a great way to get a reluctant child to give writing a go, or even just to give fresh ideas to keen writers. I love these <a href="http://picklebums.com/writing-prompts-for-kids/" target="_blank">printable writing prompts</a> from Picklebums. Don't forget to check out their other great printable designs when you pop over. There are tons!<br />
<br />
<b>3) <a href="http://www.doodlesandjots.com/2014/08/24/fairytale-printable-play/" target="_blank">Fairytale Pretend Play Signs</a></b> from <i>Doodles and Jots</i><br />
<br />
Imaginary play is important for children and I know that the kids at my daughter's play-based curriculum primary school, would enjoy helping make these adorable little signs to add to some of their play areas. <a href="http://www.doodlesandjots.com/2014/08/24/fairytale-printable-play/" target="_blank">Print out a free copy here</a> and use the ideas to inspire more play! What other road signs could you make?<br />
<br />
<b>4) <a href="http://www.learnwithplayathome.com/2015/03/road-trip-activities-and-games-for-kids.html">Free printable Road-Trip games</a></b> from <i>Learn with Play at Home (that's us)</i><br />
<br />
Keep the kids entertained in the car with these <a href="http://www.learnwithplayathome.com/2015/03/road-trip-activities-and-games-for-kids.html">free printable Road Sign Bingo</a> or Alphabet Eye Spy cheat sheets. These are also fun for on the school bus on the way to various events or camps.<br />
<br />
<b>5) <a href="http://www.coffeecupsandcrayons.com/20-free-printable-busy-bags/" target="_blank">20 Free Printable Busy Bags</a></b> from <i>Coffee Cups and Crayons</i><br />
<br />
Busy Bags are a fun idea to have on hand for toddlers or preschoolers, for when you need a bit of quiet time or something to keep them busy for a little while. <a href="http://www.coffeecupsandcrayons.com/20-free-printable-busy-bags/" target="_blank">Print and assemble these busy bags</a> before time and then pull out when needed! At home, these are great for using in the car or while you're cooking dinner or talking on the phone. In the early years classroom, bags can be made up and made available for children to use as they like.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7p3FZLfQnk8/Vsk0IixUqfI/AAAAAAAAPDU/o409HezRIpg/s1600/free%2Bprintables%2Bfor%2Bkids%2B6-10.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7p3FZLfQnk8/Vsk0IixUqfI/AAAAAAAAPDU/o409HezRIpg/s640/free%2Bprintables%2Bfor%2Bkids%2B6-10.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<b>6) <a href="http://www.youclevermonkey.com/2015/07/printable-cards.html" target="_blank">Free printable Fruit and Vegetable cards</a></b> from <i>You Clever Monkey</i><br />
<br />
"Flash cards" don't have to be used purely for "flashing" in front of children's eyes so that they learn to read and recognise a word over time. There are many uses for cards like these. I mainly enjoy having them as another way to provide a print-rich environment and be able to use them to compliment other activities (such as pretend shop play or pretend cooking school). You can print out 2 copies and use them for memory match games, or make a healthy eating display in your house or classroom. Plenty of uses beyond "flashing" them. Get your <a href="http://www.youclevermonkey.com/2015/07/printable-cards.html" target="_blank">free copy here</a>.<br />
<br />
<b>7) <a href="http://childhood101.com/2015/03/helping-children-manage-big-emotions/" target="_blank">Managing Big Emotions</a> </b>free printable from <i>Childhood 101</i><br />
<br />
Here is a great free printable to help give children a visual reminder of how to help themselves calm down. Managing big emotions isn't easy, even for us big folks, so giving children a strategy and ideas for how they can help themselves to manage their emotions is a great idea. There are even more posters in this range from Childhood 101 that you should also look at and would be great printed out at home or in the classroom.<br />
<br />
<b>8) <a href="http://www.easypeasyandfun.com/printable-time-telling-game/" target="_blank">Printable Time Telling Game</a></b> from <i>Easy Peasy and Fun</i><br />
<br />
Telling the time on an analogue clock can be tricky for some children and usually takes a bit of time to master. Help them learn to tell the time with this fun and simple game. <a href="http://www.easypeasyandfun.com/printable-time-telling-game/" target="_blank">Download the free clock template</a>, grab some dice and you're ready to go!<br />
<br />
<b>9) <a href="http://www.skiptomylou.org/free-printable-lunch-box-notes-3/" target="_blank">Free Printable Lunch-Box Notes</a></b> from <i>Skip to My Lou</i><br />
<br />
Print out these free lunch-box notes, cut them out individually and then pop in the kids lunchboxes for a sweet surprise when they open their lunch. Get your copy <a href="http://www.skiptomylou.org/free-printable-lunch-box-notes-3/" target="_blank">here</a>.<br />
<br />
<b>10) <a href="http://www.modernparentsmessykids.com/2014/06/free-printable-mom-im-bored.html" target="_blank">Printable "BORED" poster</a></b> from <i>Modern Parents Messy Kids</i><br />
<br />
"I'm bored" is a phrase that everyone has groaned at some point. I actually quite like it when my children decide they are bored, as it means they need to use their brain to come up with something to do! For those kids that struggle to think of anything, this great poster might be just what you need. <a href="http://www.modernparentsmessykids.com/2014/06/free-printable-mom-im-bored.html" target="_blank">Download your copy here</a> and be sure to read the rest of their post for plenty of suggested activities.<br />
<br />
<b>More free printables ideas:</b><br />
<ul>
<li><a href="http://www.learnwithplayathome.com/2013/05/playdough-flower-mat-free-printable.html" target="_blank">Playdough Flower Mat</a> (work on maths concepts or free play)</li>
<li><a href="http://www.learnwithplayathome.com/2013/07/8-fun-and-free-printables-for-kids.html" target="_blank">8 more fun free printables for kids</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.learnwithplayathome.com/2014/10/toy-doctor-pretend-play-with-free.html">Free printable doctors checklist</a> (for pretend play)</li>
<li><a href="http://www.learnwithplayathome.com/2014/08/7-free-kids-printables.html">7 great free printables for kids</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.learnwithplayathome.com/2012/07/recycling-sorting-activity-free.html">Free printable recycling signs</a> (to help kids learn about recycling and sorting)</li>
<li><a href="http://www.learnwithplayathome.com/2013/07/free-printable-flower-matching-game.html">Flower Match Game</a> (a fun puzzle for younger children)</li>
</ul>
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<div style="text-align: left;">
Happy printing,</div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<div style="text-align: left;">
<b><span style="font-size: large;">Debs :)</span></b></div>
</div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br class="Apple-interchange-newline" />
<br /></div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="color: #0b5394;">Look where else we are. Are you following along? :)</span></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/learnwithplayathome" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vkHOFWBJK4o/UYyIgOBU9wI/AAAAAAAAGxo/RvuMjfHQ8L0/s1600/facebook.png" width="45" /></a><a href="http://pinterest.com/debstar4/" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Q4D1znEaQ1o/UYyIhLF1kZI/AAAAAAAAGyA/_ZtdQ6RKoXo/s1600/pinterest.png" width="45" /></a><a href="https://twitter.com/Learn_with_Play" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Bmqmpb9Xyjs/UYyIhMG5E3I/AAAAAAAAGyE/YAcBYCgfHSQ/s1600/twitter.png" width="45" /></a><a href="https://plus.google.com/u/0/113416249899539659575" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-44-9pseqqU4/UYyIgD7LORI/AAAAAAAAGxs/9dX88h__ySA/s1600/google%252B.png" width="45" /></a><a href="http://instagram.com/learnwithplayathome" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2fJM8P2Waec/UYyIgHDR4OI/AAAAAAAAGxw/p3Qh6jbkY3E/s1600/instagram.png" width="45" /></a><a href="mailto:learnwithplayathome@gmail.com" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jxw1Ykf18tU/UYyIgoSn7YI/AAAAAAAAGx0/h0Bdknuiv20/s1600/mail.png" width="45" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<form action="http://feedburner.google.com/fb/a/mailverify" method="post" onsubmit="window.open('http://feedburner.google.com/fb/a/mailverify?uri=LearnWithPlayHome', 'popupwindow', 'scrollbars=yes,width=550,height=520');return true" style="border: 1px solid #ccc; padding: 3px; text-align: center;" target="popupwindow">
</form>
</div>
Learn with Play at Homehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08323717740126935795noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6796821888191012398.post-38847384960091987712016-02-04T07:51:00.001+11:002016-05-18T18:01:24.938+10:00Help your child learn to read in 4 weeks for free!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://goo.gl/LbNNg3" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Vcd4hg3hvco/Vq_6t9B56ZI/AAAAAAAAPBU/IQD5Jat2UEI/s640/For%2BEDM.png" width="616" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: right;">
<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">This post is </span><a href="http://blog.nuffnang.com.au/blogger/nuffnang-policy-on-sponsored-posts/" style="font-family: times, 'times new roman', serif;" target="_blank">sponsored</a><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; text-align: left;"> by ABC Reading Eggs and Nuffnang</span></span></div>
<br />
For children to <b>learn to read</b>, they need to do just that. Read! They should be read with and to every single day. In addition to reading stories and words that we see in everyday life, there are numerous activities and games that children can play, in order to help further develop the <b>essential keys to reading success</b>;<br />
<br />
<ul>
<li><b>phonemic awareness</b> - hearing and manipulating different sounds in words</li>
<li><b>phonics </b>-<b> </b>recognising the connection between letters and the sounds they make</li>
<li><b>vocabulary</b> - understanding the meaning of words, their definitions and context</li>
<li><b>reading comprehension</b> - understanding the meaning in text, and </li>
<li><b>fluency</b> - reading aloud with speed, understanding and accuracy. </li>
</ul>
<div>
<br />
<a name='more'></a></div>
<a href="http://goo.gl/LbNNg3" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">ABC Reading Eggs</a> – a favourite reading program of ours – helps children achieve this. The online program covers all five keys to reading success through fun games, interactive lessons, and books. And right now, they’re offering a <a href="http://goo.gl/LbNNg3" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">FREE 4 week trial that parents can take advantage of here</a>.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://goo.gl/LbNNg3" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="270" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KjyXsiwrC8M/Vq1jUhsweQI/AAAAAAAAO_w/f0CIZm_1teE/s640/reading%2Beggs%2Bstages.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<i>With both myself and my husband working regularly on computers, it is no wonder that of course my children want to get on computers themselves. In fact, technology is such an everyday part of our modern societies' way of life, that it is only natural that children want to be a part of this world as well. When it comes to screen time, I believe there needs to be limits for children. If I let him, my son (4 years old), would probably sit staring at screens for the better part of a day. He loves sensory play and construction but is also a very <b>visual learner</b> and gets very drawn in to focusing on what is going on before his eyes. Whilst my daughter (aged 7) isn't quite as obsessed with all things technological, she does very much enjoy using a computer or tablet when she gets the chance!</i><br />
<i>I don't mind my children having a certain amount of screen time daily, but I am very picky when it comes to what that screen time entails. If they're going to be on a computer or tablet, then I want to know that they are gaining something from that time, which is why there are set programs or apps that my children have access to.</i><br />
<br />
<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<o:DocumentProperties>
<o:Revision>0</o:Revision>
<o:TotalTime>0</o:TotalTime>
<o:Pages>1</o:Pages>
<o:Words>27</o:Words>
<o:Characters>160</o:Characters>
<o:Company>Learn With Play at Home</o:Company>
<o:Lines>1</o:Lines>
<o:Paragraphs>1</o:Paragraphs>
<o:CharactersWithSpaces>186</o:CharactersWithSpaces>
<o:Version>14.0</o:Version>
</o:DocumentProperties>
<o:OfficeDocumentSettings>
<o:AllowPNG/>
</o:OfficeDocumentSettings>
</xml><![endif]-->
<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<w:WordDocument>
<w:View>Normal</w:View>
<w:Zoom>0</w:Zoom>
<w:TrackMoves/>
<w:TrackFormatting/>
<w:PunctuationKerning/>
<w:ValidateAgainstSchemas/>
<w:SaveIfXMLInvalid>false</w:SaveIfXMLInvalid>
<w:IgnoreMixedContent>false</w:IgnoreMixedContent>
<w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText>false</w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText>
<w:DoNotPromoteQF/>
<w:LidThemeOther>EN-US</w:LidThemeOther>
<w:LidThemeAsian>JA</w:LidThemeAsian>
<w:LidThemeComplexScript>X-NONE</w:LidThemeComplexScript>
<w:Compatibility>
<w:BreakWrappedTables/>
<w:SnapToGridInCell/>
<w:WrapTextWithPunct/>
<w:UseAsianBreakRules/>
<w:DontGrowAutofit/>
<w:SplitPgBreakAndParaMark/>
<w:EnableOpenTypeKerning/>
<w:DontFlipMirrorIndents/>
<w:OverrideTableStyleHps/>
<w:UseFELayout/>
</w:Compatibility>
<m:mathPr>
<m:mathFont m:val="Cambria Math"/>
<m:brkBin m:val="before"/>
<m:brkBinSub m:val="--"/>
<m:smallFrac m:val="off"/>
<m:dispDef/>
<m:lMargin m:val="0"/>
<m:rMargin m:val="0"/>
<m:defJc m:val="centerGroup"/>
<m:wrapIndent m:val="1440"/>
<m:intLim m:val="subSup"/>
<m:naryLim m:val="undOvr"/>
</m:mathPr></w:WordDocument>
</xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<w:LatentStyles DefLockedState="false" DefUnhideWhenUsed="true"
DefSemiHidden="true" DefQFormat="false" DefPriority="99"
LatentStyleCount="276">
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="0" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Normal"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="heading 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 7"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 8"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 9"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 7"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 8"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 9"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="35" QFormat="true" Name="caption"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="10" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Title"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="1" Name="Default Paragraph Font"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="11" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Subtitle"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="22" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Strong"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="20" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="59" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Table Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Placeholder Text"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="1" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="No Spacing"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Revision"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="34" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="List Paragraph"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="29" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Quote"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="30" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Intense Quote"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="19" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Subtle Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="21" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Intense Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="31" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Subtle Reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="32" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Intense Reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="33" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Book Title"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="37" Name="Bibliography"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" QFormat="true" Name="TOC Heading"/>
</w:LatentStyles>
</xml><![endif]-->
<!--[if gte mso 10]>
<style>
/* Style Definitions */
table.MsoNormalTable
{mso-style-name:"Table Normal";
mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0;
mso-tstyle-colband-size:0;
mso-style-noshow:yes;
mso-style-priority:99;
mso-style-parent:"";
mso-padding-alt:0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt;
mso-para-margin:0cm;
mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt;
mso-pagination:widow-orphan;
font-size:12.0pt;
font-family:Cambria;
mso-ascii-font-family:Cambria;
mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-hansi-font-family:Cambria;
mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-ansi-language:EN-US;}
</style>
<![endif]-->
<!--StartFragment--><!--EndFragment--><b>ABC Reading Eggs</b> is the perfect way to ensure my children are benefitting from valuable educational screen time. The multi-award winning educational program was created for children aged 3-13 years, by a highly experienced team of Australian primary school teachers, writers and developers, in order to <b>assist children to become fluent and proficient readers</b>. The games and activities throughout the program have been designed in a way that is <b>self motivating, self-paced, entertaining </b>and<b> fun - </b>and the<b> </b>program can be used on a desktop, iPad and most other tablet devices. This combination is what motivates children to want to play, which in turn helps them to develop and consolidate their reading skills. It is also used in more than 5,000 schools throughout Australia and is a program I've used previously with students I've taught.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8WVX3kyPK-E/Vq1nSOFiwQI/AAAAAAAAPAE/iRH5rKFsXYY/s1600/Screen%2BShot%2B2016-01-31%2Bat%2B11.27.11%2Bam.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8WVX3kyPK-E/Vq1nSOFiwQI/AAAAAAAAPAE/iRH5rKFsXYY/s640/Screen%2BShot%2B2016-01-31%2Bat%2B11.27.11%2Bam.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7ANeMfLmcdE/Vq1_BoYRplI/AAAAAAAAPAk/hGc3_rdYe0E/s1600/using%2Breading%2Beggs.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7ANeMfLmcdE/Vq1_BoYRplI/AAAAAAAAPAk/hGc3_rdYe0E/s640/using%2Breading%2Beggs.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<b>ABC Reading Eggs program features:</b><br />
<br />
<ul>
<li>My Lesson: <b>120 guided and interactive reading lessons</b></li>
<br />
<li>Skills Bank: 96 carefully graded <b>spelling lessons</b></li>
<br />
<li>Driving Tests: 45 <b>literacy tests that assess sight words, phonics skills, and vocabulary</b>, and award children with fun racing car games.</li>
<br />
<li>Story Factory: provides a step-by-step guide to writing a story. Children can choose illustrations and access word and sentence suggestions to <b>craft an original story</b>.</li>
<br />
<li>Storylands: opens after lesson 60 and contains 20 new lessons that build young children’s <b>comprehension and vocabulary skills. </b></li>
<br />
<li>ABC Reading Eggspress Library: <b>over 2000 e-books </b>sorted by age level and Lexile level, including fiction and informational texts. The library also includes read aloud options for beginner readers. Each book ends with a <b>comprehension</b> quiz to assess children’s understanding.</li>
<br />
<li><b>Rewards-based areas</b>: ABC Reading Eggs is designed to reward children for their achievements to motivate them to keep learning. The program includes multiple rewards-based areas, like Reggie’s Shop and the Arcade, where children can buy items and games with the golden eggs they earn.</li>
<br />
<li><b>Parent dashboard</b>: Parents have access to detailed progress reports and hundreds of full-colour activity sheets that correspond with the lessons in the program. Parents can also print out a certificate for their child after they complete each map.</li>
<br />
<li><b>ABC Reading Eggspress (7-13 years)</b> is included with the ABC Reading Eggs subscription and focuses on more advanced literacy skills such as spelling, comprehension, vocabulary and grammar skills.</li>
</ul>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://goo.gl/hzwrPb" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rQ_zogDH7a0/Vq1nQzes8qI/AAAAAAAAO_8/SgYcKV4N4lo/s640/Screen%2BShot%2B2016-01-31%2Bat%2B11.24.31%2Bam.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;">
<div style="line-height: normal;">
<b>Get your Free 4 Week Trial</b></div>
<div style="line-height: normal;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: normal;">
<b style="line-height: normal;">ABC Reading Eggs</b> is offering a <b style="line-height: normal;">free 4-week trial</b> of their multi-award winning program for new customers. You can trial this program for no upfront costs and without needing to put in any credit card details. It's also really quick and easy to set up and, as I mentioned before, you can use it on your computer or supported devices, like your iPad.<br />
<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<o:DocumentProperties>
<o:Revision>0</o:Revision>
<o:TotalTime>0</o:TotalTime>
<o:Pages>1</o:Pages>
<o:Words>11</o:Words>
<o:Characters>63</o:Characters>
<o:Company>Learn With Play at Home</o:Company>
<o:Lines>1</o:Lines>
<o:Paragraphs>1</o:Paragraphs>
<o:CharactersWithSpaces>73</o:CharactersWithSpaces>
<o:Version>14.0</o:Version>
</o:DocumentProperties>
<o:OfficeDocumentSettings>
<o:AllowPNG/>
</o:OfficeDocumentSettings>
</xml><![endif]-->
<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<w:WordDocument>
<w:View>Normal</w:View>
<w:Zoom>0</w:Zoom>
<w:TrackMoves/>
<w:TrackFormatting/>
<w:PunctuationKerning/>
<w:ValidateAgainstSchemas/>
<w:SaveIfXMLInvalid>false</w:SaveIfXMLInvalid>
<w:IgnoreMixedContent>false</w:IgnoreMixedContent>
<w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText>false</w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText>
<w:DoNotPromoteQF/>
<w:LidThemeOther>EN-US</w:LidThemeOther>
<w:LidThemeAsian>JA</w:LidThemeAsian>
<w:LidThemeComplexScript>X-NONE</w:LidThemeComplexScript>
<w:Compatibility>
<w:BreakWrappedTables/>
<w:SnapToGridInCell/>
<w:WrapTextWithPunct/>
<w:UseAsianBreakRules/>
<w:DontGrowAutofit/>
<w:SplitPgBreakAndParaMark/>
<w:EnableOpenTypeKerning/>
<w:DontFlipMirrorIndents/>
<w:OverrideTableStyleHps/>
<w:UseFELayout/>
</w:Compatibility>
<m:mathPr>
<m:mathFont m:val="Cambria Math"/>
<m:brkBin m:val="before"/>
<m:brkBinSub m:val="--"/>
<m:smallFrac m:val="off"/>
<m:dispDef/>
<m:lMargin m:val="0"/>
<m:rMargin m:val="0"/>
<m:defJc m:val="centerGroup"/>
<m:wrapIndent m:val="1440"/>
<m:intLim m:val="subSup"/>
<m:naryLim m:val="undOvr"/>
</m:mathPr></w:WordDocument>
</xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<w:LatentStyles DefLockedState="false" DefUnhideWhenUsed="true"
DefSemiHidden="true" DefQFormat="false" DefPriority="99"
LatentStyleCount="276">
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="0" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Normal"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="heading 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 7"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 8"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 9"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 7"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 8"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 9"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="35" QFormat="true" Name="caption"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="10" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Title"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="1" Name="Default Paragraph Font"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="11" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Subtitle"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="22" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Strong"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="20" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="59" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Table Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Placeholder Text"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="1" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="No Spacing"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Revision"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="34" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="List Paragraph"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="29" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Quote"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="30" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Intense Quote"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="19" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Subtle Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="21" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Intense Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="31" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Subtle Reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="32" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Intense Reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="33" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Book Title"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="37" Name="Bibliography"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" QFormat="true" Name="TOC Heading"/>
</w:LatentStyles>
</xml><![endif]-->
<!--[if gte mso 10]>
<style>
/* Style Definitions */
table.MsoNormalTable
{mso-style-name:"Table Normal";
mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0;
mso-tstyle-colband-size:0;
mso-style-noshow:yes;
mso-style-priority:99;
mso-style-parent:"";
mso-padding-alt:0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt;
mso-para-margin:0cm;
mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt;
mso-pagination:widow-orphan;
font-size:12.0pt;
font-family:Cambria;
mso-ascii-font-family:Cambria;
mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-hansi-font-family:Cambria;
mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-ansi-language:EN-US;}
</style>
<![endif]-->
<!--StartFragment--><!--EndFragment--></div>
<div style="line-height: normal;">
<br />
<b>Join over 3.4 million users worldwide and <a href="http://goo.gl/LbNNg3" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">start your FREE 4-WEEK trial today</a>.</b><br />
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: normal;">
During your free trial, you will also have access to <b>ABC Reading Eggspress</b> (for ages 7-13) and <b>ABC Mathseeds</b> (their maths program for children aged 3-8).<br />
<br />
If you wish to continue using ABC Reading Eggs after your four weeks is up, parents have the option to purchase a 12 month or 6 month subscription OR a combined subscription which also includes ABC Mathseeds. You can purchase a 6 month subscription online for $59.95 or a 12 month subscription for $79.95.<br />
<div style="line-height: normal;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; line-height: normal; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-JjtTd8tYsUo/Vq1_C7rqucI/AAAAAAAAPAs/7jVYOCMVDcs/s1600/kids%2Breading%2Beggs.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-JjtTd8tYsUo/Vq1_C7rqucI/AAAAAAAAPAs/7jVYOCMVDcs/s640/kids%2Breading%2Beggs.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="line-height: normal;">
<br /></div>
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; line-height: normal; text-align: left;">
The best part about it, according to my kids, is that it's fun!</div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; color: black; font-family: Times; font-size: medium; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 24px; orphans: auto; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 1; word-spacing: 0px;">
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "calibri"; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 21px;"><br /></span></div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<div style="text-align: left;">
Happy playing,</div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<div style="text-align: left;">
<b><span style="font-size: large;">Debs :)</span></b><br />
<b><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></b></div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<div style="text-align: left;">
<em style="background-color: white; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><span style="color: #111111; font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 21.9833px;">{Disclosure: this is a paid post for ABC Reading Eggs </span></span><a href="http://www.nuffnang.com.au/blogger/nuffnang-policy-on-sponsored-posts" style="color: #792c7a; font-family: inherit; line-height: 21.9833px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" target="_blank">sponsored by Nuffnang</a><span style="color: #111111; font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 21.9833px;">.</span></span><span style="color: #111111; font-family: inherit; line-height: 21.9833px;"> As always, opinions expressed in this post are my own and my children's.}</span></em></div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="color: #0b5394;">Look where else we are. Are you following along? :)</span></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/learnwithplayathome" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vkHOFWBJK4o/UYyIgOBU9wI/AAAAAAAAGxo/RvuMjfHQ8L0/s1600/facebook.png" width="45" /></a><a href="http://pinterest.com/debstar4/" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Q4D1znEaQ1o/UYyIhLF1kZI/AAAAAAAAGyA/_ZtdQ6RKoXo/s1600/pinterest.png" width="45" /></a><a href="https://twitter.com/Learn_with_Play" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Bmqmpb9Xyjs/UYyIhMG5E3I/AAAAAAAAGyE/YAcBYCgfHSQ/s1600/twitter.png" width="45" /></a><a href="https://plus.google.com/u/0/113416249899539659575" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-44-9pseqqU4/UYyIgD7LORI/AAAAAAAAGxs/9dX88h__ySA/s1600/google%252B.png" width="45" /></a><a href="http://instagram.com/learnwithplayathome" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2fJM8P2Waec/UYyIgHDR4OI/AAAAAAAAGxw/p3Qh6jbkY3E/s1600/instagram.png" width="45" /></a><a href="mailto:learnwithplayathome@gmail.com" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jxw1Ykf18tU/UYyIgoSn7YI/AAAAAAAAGx0/h0Bdknuiv20/s1600/mail.png" width="45" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="color: #444444;">New Here? Subscribe to get all activities sent directly to you</span></b></div>
<form action="http://feedburner.google.com/fb/a/mailverify" method="post" onsubmit="window.open('http://feedburner.google.com/fb/a/mailverify?uri=LearnWithPlayHome', 'popupwindow', 'scrollbars=yes,width=550,height=520');return true" style="border: 1px solid #ccc; padding: 3px; text-align: center;" target="popupwindow">
Enter your email address:<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<input name="email" style="width: 140px;" type="text" /><br /></div>
<input name="uri" type="hidden" value="LearnWithPlayHome" /><input name="loc" type="hidden" value="en_US" /><input type="submit" value="Subscribe" /><br />
Delivered by <a href="http://feedburner.google.com/" target="_blank">FeedBurner</a></form>
Learn with Play at Homehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08323717740126935795noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6796821888191012398.post-12038723808939718802016-01-27T10:32:00.000+11:002019-07-11T13:32:47.576+10:0010 interesting Lion facts for kids.<div style="text-align: right;">
<h3 style="text-align: left;">
10 Interesting Lion Facts for kids.</h3>
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
A visit to Werribee Open Range Zoo resulted in a reignited interest in lions for my kids. We read many different and interesting facts about lions and came up with a list of our <b>10 favourite facts about lions</b>.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-n6bVAFJPBz0/VqNcJqdct6I/AAAAAAAAO8s/qqTpu9wzyws/s1600/lion.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-n6bVAFJPBz0/VqNcJqdct6I/AAAAAAAAO8s/qqTpu9wzyws/s640/lion.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Feeding time for the lions at Werribee Open Range Zoo in Victoria. It was cool to see them this close!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<b>1.</b> Lions are the only cats that live in groups, called prides.<br /><br /><b>2.</b> While the male lions are defending the pride’s territory, the female lions do most of the hunting. Despite this, the males eat first.<br /><br /><b>3.</b> An adult male's roar can be heard up to 8km away.<br /><br /><b>4.</b> A good gauge of a male lion’s age is the darkness of his mane. The darker the mane, the older the lion.<br /><br /><b>5.</b> The name for a baby lion is a cub, whelp or lionet.<div>
<br /><b>6.</b> When cubs are first born, they weigh only around 1.5kg (3 lbs). They are completely dependent on their mother.</div>
<div>
<br /><b>7.</b> The heaviest lion on record weighed a huge 375 kg (826 lb).</div>
<div>
<br /><b>8.</b> In the wild, lions rest for around 20 hours a day.</div>
<div>
<br /><b>9.</b> In the wild, lions live for an average of 12 years and up to 16 years. In captivity, they can live up to 25 years.</div>
<div>
<br /><b>10.</b> Lions and tigers are so closely related that if you shaved them you wouldn't be able to tell them apart.<br /><div>
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<div style="text-align: left;">
Happy playing,</div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<div style="text-align: left;">
<b><span style="font-size: large;">Debs :)</span></b></div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="color: #0b5394;">Look where else we are. Are you following along? :)</span></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/learnwithplayathome" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vkHOFWBJK4o/UYyIgOBU9wI/AAAAAAAAGxo/RvuMjfHQ8L0/s1600/facebook.png" width="45" /></a><a href="http://pinterest.com/debstar4/" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Q4D1znEaQ1o/UYyIhLF1kZI/AAAAAAAAGyA/_ZtdQ6RKoXo/s1600/pinterest.png" width="45" /></a><a href="https://twitter.com/Learn_with_Play" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Bmqmpb9Xyjs/UYyIhMG5E3I/AAAAAAAAGyE/YAcBYCgfHSQ/s1600/twitter.png" width="45" /></a><a href="https://plus.google.com/u/0/113416249899539659575" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-44-9pseqqU4/UYyIgD7LORI/AAAAAAAAGxs/9dX88h__ySA/s1600/google%252B.png" width="45" /></a><a href="http://instagram.com/learnwithplayathome" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2fJM8P2Waec/UYyIgHDR4OI/AAAAAAAAGxw/p3Qh6jbkY3E/s1600/instagram.png" width="45" /></a><a href="mailto:learnwithplayathome@gmail.com" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jxw1Ykf18tU/UYyIgoSn7YI/AAAAAAAAGx0/h0Bdknuiv20/s1600/mail.png" width="45" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="color: #444444;">New Here? Subscribe to get all activities sent directly to you</span></b></div>
<form action="http://feedburner.google.com/fb/a/mailverify" method="post" onsubmit="window.open('http://feedburner.google.com/fb/a/mailverify?uri=LearnWithPlayHome', 'popupwindow', 'scrollbars=yes,width=550,height=520');return true" style="border: 1px solid #ccc; padding: 3px; text-align: center;" target="popupwindow">
Enter your email address:<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<input name="email" style="width: 140px;" type="text" /><br /></div>
<input name="uri" type="hidden" value="LearnWithPlayHome" /><input name="loc" type="hidden" value="en_US" /><input type="submit" value="Subscribe" /><br />
Delivered by <a href="http://feedburner.google.com/" target="_blank">FeedBurner</a></form>
</div>
</div>
Learn with Play at Homehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08323717740126935795noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6796821888191012398.post-44314320132665715192016-01-17T11:55:00.000+11:002020-08-02T11:55:30.923+10:00Watercolour and Salt. Science and Art exploration for kids<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Watercolour paper, salt and watercolour paint come together to create some incredible results. What makes the best results? That's what you'll need to explore!</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-46_4V210n4A/Vph_8Iis_9I/AAAAAAAAO2o/LzKqeJhPzJI/s640/Salt%2Band%2BWatercolour.jpg" width="448" /></span></div>
<a name='more'></a><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">My clever friend, Asia, from <a href="http://www.funathomewithkids.com/" target="_blank">Fun at Home with Kids </a>has been at it again and produced her 2nd fabulous children's book, "<b>The Curious Kid's Science Book</b>." We were thrilled to receive our copy and began pouring over it immediately.</span></div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-GDlZ4julY4o/Vph_9EwQ9WI/AAAAAAAAO2w/hV6MEgO56UE/s640/P1131796.JPG" width="640" /></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The book is set out beautifully with bright, bold imagery, just waiting to entice you and the kids into <b>creating, exploring and experimenting.</b> </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Whilst specific recipes and experiments will lay out all the step-by-step instructions that you need, I love that <i>much of the book encourages you to actually do the experimenting and exploring yourself</i>, which is so important!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_s8dBNMu1-U/Vph_-L6BUdI/AAAAAAAAO20/Ob60dRTF4c0/s640/P1131791.JPG" width="640" /></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">We were drawn to the beautiful <b>salt and watercolour exploration </b>and decided it would be our first activity from the book. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">With this style of activity, we had the material list and a basic idea of what to do. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">As for an exact method, well, that bit was up to us and required us to actually think about the different ways and amounts of water and salt, in order to achieve different results. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">It also allowed us to <b>talk about and reflect upon our observations whilst creating and formulate our own conclusions.</b> </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">All very scientific and more interesting than being told exactly what to do to create an exact result.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Here's what we came up with.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-46cYNOG6sxM/Vph__Oa9cDI/AAAAAAAAO28/Gl60mx9sPQU/s640/P1131798.JPG" width="640" /></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Materials:</b> Squares of watercolour paper, salt, watercolour paint (we used liquid watercolour here), brushes.</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-a02-W_GyNcg/VpiAACpcWcI/AAAAAAAAO3I/Uh5Ln2FmqW8/s640/P1131802.JPG" width="640" /></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">"Where to start Mum?"</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">"Just go for it! Use the materials, see what happens."</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cSCLeSZejvg/VpiABNrQiPI/AAAAAAAAO3M/nWIcnv6xyBE/s640/P1131817.JPG" width="640" /></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Should you put the watercolour/water down first or the salt? My kids discovered the answer to that pretty quickly.</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="376" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-b2CEma8JPNU/VpiADdHglWI/AAAAAAAAO3U/BMagKO0jnZk/s640/watercolor%2Bsalt.png" width="640" /></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> What if you use barely any water? Why do you think it doesn't work?</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="376" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-yFaal7nWDcw/VpiAFZSuEeI/AAAAAAAAO3g/tcRiRA9h1NE/s640/watercolour%2Band%2Bsalt.png" width="640" /></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">What is happening to the salt? My kids remembered the word "absorption" here! Yes, it is absorbing the liquid. </span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ZtnLDZaI13Q/VpiAGxiSoGI/AAAAAAAAO3o/ZTVfAd_6lf4/s640/P1131830.JPG" width="640" /> </span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Dud2UufCfwE/VpiAH_Lk5QI/AAAAAAAAO3s/_CR1btrsO3s/s640/P1131849.JPG" width="640" /></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Can you use the salt to draw certain colours across your pattern?</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8B9rK73wanQ/VpiAJeLdQbI/AAAAAAAAO30/cY0U04aUpx0/s640/P1131846.JPG" width="640" /></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">What colour changes do you see occurring? What is happening?</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-orl3U_bHgqs/VpiAK16nndI/AAAAAAAAO38/O9pe6IL3c7s/s1600/P1131850.JPG" /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Gw3W_ndahGI/VpiAMYhUDkI/AAAAAAAAO4E/AFk9Xs2Abo8/s640/P1131851.JPG" width="640" /></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">How will they look when they dry?</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-IvLOvSKS8R0/VpiAON-HU5I/AAAAAAAAO4M/K85eeTOQAPY/s640/P1131856.JPG" width="640" /></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Beautiful! Time to reflect on what gave our favourite results and what method we used to obtain them.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dABlhetgaj0/VpiAPOKa5wI/AAAAAAAAO4U/Ydjw1AjIY1c/s640/P1131794.JPG" width="640" /></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b><i>The Curious Kid's Science Book. 100+ Creative Hands-on Activities for Ages 4-8</i></b>, would make a fabulous gift (especially if you combine it with a few goodies required for creating and exploring some of the scientific concepts covered in the book). It's available worldwide and you can get it with <a href="http://www.bookdepository.com/The-Curious-Kids-Science-Book-Asi-Citro/9781943147007/?a_aid=learnwithplay" target="_blank">free delivery here from the Book Depository</a>. (Or look out quality bookshops near you).</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Check out the fun we had <a href="http://www.learnwithplayathome.com/2015/04/dinosaurs-in-sticky-mud-sensory-play.html" target="_blank">this awesome activity</a> from Asia's first book, "<a href="http://www.bookdepository.com/150-Screen-Free-Activities-for-Kids-Asia-Citro/9781440576157/?a_aid=learnwithplay" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">150+ Screen-Free Activities for Kids</a>."</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Happy playing,</span></div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<div style="text-align: left;">
<b><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Debs :)</span></b></div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></b>
</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Disclosure: I was sent a complimentary copy of this book to review. All thoughts and opinions are, as always, my own. This post contains affiliate links. (Book Depository) Thanks for your support.</span></div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Look where else we are. Are you following along? :)</span></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/learnwithplayathome" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vkHOFWBJK4o/UYyIgOBU9wI/AAAAAAAAGxo/RvuMjfHQ8L0/s1600/facebook.png" width="45" /></a><a href="http://pinterest.com/debstar4/" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Q4D1znEaQ1o/UYyIhLF1kZI/AAAAAAAAGyA/_ZtdQ6RKoXo/s1600/pinterest.png" width="45" /></a><a href="https://twitter.com/Learn_with_Play" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Bmqmpb9Xyjs/UYyIhMG5E3I/AAAAAAAAGyE/YAcBYCgfHSQ/s1600/twitter.png" width="45" /></a><a href="https://plus.google.com/u/0/113416249899539659575" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-44-9pseqqU4/UYyIgD7LORI/AAAAAAAAGxs/9dX88h__ySA/s1600/google%252B.png" width="45" /></a><a href="http://instagram.com/learnwithplayathome" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2fJM8P2Waec/UYyIgHDR4OI/AAAAAAAAGxw/p3Qh6jbkY3E/s1600/instagram.png" width="45" /></a><a href="mailto:learnwithplayathome@gmail.com" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jxw1Ykf18tU/UYyIgoSn7YI/AAAAAAAAGx0/h0Bdknuiv20/s1600/mail.png" width="45" /></a></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<form action="http://feedburner.google.com/fb/a/mailverify" method="post" onsubmit="window.open('http://feedburner.google.com/fb/a/mailverify?uri=LearnWithPlayHome', 'popupwindow', 'scrollbars=yes,width=550,height=520');return true" style="border: 1px solid #ccc; padding: 3px; text-align: center;" target="popupwindow">
</form>
Learn with Play at Homehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08323717740126935795noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6796821888191012398.post-45431822988102769042016-01-04T06:30:00.000+11:002019-03-25T10:51:33.649+11:0010 fun school holiday DIY Projects for kids<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
The school holidays are a great time to have a go at some <b>DIY projects with kids</b>. Not only do they keep the kids occupied whilst <b>learning new skills</b> and <b>experimenting with ideas</b>, but they can <b>create </b>some really cool <b>games and activities</b> for very little cost.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KBTopVZeGbw/VmKSHaWWnuI/AAAAAAAAOjs/ClhfTVVwPkA/s1600/10%2BDIY%2Bprojects%2Bfor%2Bkids.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KBTopVZeGbw/VmKSHaWWnuI/AAAAAAAAOjs/ClhfTVVwPkA/s640/10%2BDIY%2Bprojects%2Bfor%2Bkids.jpg" width="448" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>This post is brought to you by <a href="http://goo.gl/tDJsle" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Bunnings Warehouse</a> and Nuffnang</i></div>
<br />
My kids feel a real sense of pride and accomplishment from being able to take a bunch of simple objects and put them together in a way that creates something new. This is what DIY is all about, <b>creating and making</b> things. As the number 1 destination for DIY, <b>Bunnings</b> is the place to go to get everything you need and their fun kid-friendly environment, with miniature trolleys, face painting, kids playgrounds and more, makes it the ideal location to pick up everything you need for your <b>DIY projects</b> with the whole family.<br />
<br />
We recently discovered that the <b>Bunnings website has a huge range of fun projects for the kids</b>, with easy to follow <b>video tutorials</b>. Perfect for gaining inspiration and getting ideas for new projects! We've browsed through the <b><a href="http://goo.gl/jHDvsC" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">kids DIY projects</a></b> on their website and have made a list of 10 of our favourites! Here they are. (We've already made one of them and the kids think it's the coolest thing they've ever made!)<br />
<a name='more'></a><br />
<br />
<h3>
1) Make a Catapult Target Game</h3>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
When the kids saw this DIY project, they really wanted to make it! I loved the <b>engineering</b> side of the project and also that the addition of the paper-plates and numbers, turned it into a great <b>maths game</b>! (Not that the kids saw it that way.) </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Below you can see how ours came together after watching the video. You can watch Bunnings' full <a href="http://goo.gl/LTknFy" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">catapult target game video tutorial here</a>. I found that once my six year-old had watched the video, I didn't need to be too involved. She was quite capable of putting it together herself.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-kVwTvRtA0Y0/VmKSIckNf2I/AAAAAAAAOj0/_PH91w1snGA/s640/PC050023.JPG" /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<b>Materials:</b></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<ul>
<li>Small piece of wood</li>
<li>peg</li>
<li>craft stick</li>
<li>bottle-top</li>
<li>craft glue (one that can bond multi-materials)</li>
<li>paper plates</li>
<li>markers or paint</li>
</ul>
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-o-hmNYbFGIM/VmKSKLThJpI/AAAAAAAAOkE/AKMq8Cj22iA/s640/PC050029.JPG" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1jSgwKGMHYw/VmKSK9JQDFI/AAAAAAAAOkM/K-vVaiTQyFg/s640/PC050032.JPG" /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Glue your peg to your wooden block. <i>(I recommend a peg with more surface area to glue down than we used here. It will adhere better. I added some super-glue around the edge of our peg to ensure it stayed stuck)</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Py_bXOSe4HU/VmKSLjihJKI/AAAAAAAAOkU/heiH6K_FuMc/s640/PC050036.JPG" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Mk15Uf4a0mw/VmKSMWsE-gI/AAAAAAAAOkc/ZcbepOfFqOY/s640/PC050040.JPG" width="640" /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Glue your craft stick onto your peg. <i>(Press carefully if applying while the glue between the peg and wood is still wet)</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-EW02WgWSQn8/VmKSJcPjV2I/AAAAAAAAOj8/1Y-C4oDDNMo/s640/PC050025.JPG" /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
While waiting for the glue to dry, design your target boards and put the scores on each one. You can paint them or use markers. Use any numbers that you like. <i>For younger kids, three plates numbered 1-3 would work well.</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-gq3z5ZqPgQ4/VmKSNXj5LqI/AAAAAAAAOkk/byIdZGiKS9M/s640/PC050042.JPG" width="640" /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Kuy9Y-wiE-k/VmKSOMQXSMI/AAAAAAAAOks/QGt--UYEQ1c/s640/PC050044.JPG" width="640" /></div>
Glue your bottle-top on to the craft stick. When dry, it's ready!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-PtAv0dThlLQ/VmKSPB_JRKI/AAAAAAAAOk0/1oi2hKCU1hM/s640/PC050047.JPG" width="640" /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-AEgDDliR4Xk/VmKSQYTzZ2I/AAAAAAAAOk8/rZ9cHpVez6s/s640/PC050049.JPG" width="640" /></div>
My kids decided that pom-poms would be perfect to use with our catapult. If you don't have any pom-poms, scrunched balls of paper work well.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-MmKA6fhDjNs/VmKSRel1HRI/AAAAAAAAOlE/1oMmasILTeY/s640/PC050054.JPG" width="640" /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-JJiQy815EZU/VmKWyoGBp8I/AAAAAAAAOlQ/UnqbvL1-864/s640/PC050052.JPG" width="640" /></div>
Set out your targets. You will have to experiment with positioning. This catapult can fling higher and further than imagined!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-biYmGx-2Pfk/VmKWz7q0NPI/AAAAAAAAOlY/wcJXH_BAwg0/s1600/PC050064.JPG" /></div>
Ready, aim, fire!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zbQNH3qyNAo/VmKW1KksboI/AAAAAAAAOlg/9s8VlK9WwHk/s640/PC050089.JPG" width="640" /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qiNPmFoKTdg/VmKW2TNg37I/AAAAAAAAOlo/3eYoRkdVd-w/s640/PC050092.JPG" width="640" /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Lovely to watch the concentration and cooperation.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Q_iZ9R2lLFo/VmKW3MK-CPI/AAAAAAAAOlw/4HkWt_OZDIQ/s640/PC050094.JPG" width="640" /></div>
I enjoyed watching all the experimenting with catapult positioning and how far to pull back on the catapult to get the desired distance. They definitely got better with practice.<br />
<br />
As we made the catapult, my kids came up with lots of different ways that we could also make other catapults, or ways that we could get a better performance or quicker result. They were a little frustrated waiting for the glue to dry, which led us to talking about how we could make a similar catapult without any glue! These <b>thought processes</b> are so important for children to experience but in order for this to happen, they need to actually make and do things themselves, not just watch them being done.<br />
<br />
<h3>
2) Make a Skipping Rope</h3>
<br />
My daughter thought the idea of making your own skipping rope would be brilliant! Probably because she could make it the perfect length for her, unlike the bought one that we had to put knots at the handles in because of being too long. We thought that the way they make the handles was really cool! We've not done a lot of woodwork, so this would be great for developing some new skills. See the <a href="http://goo.gl/6ym65I" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">How to Make a Skipping Rope tutorial video here</a>.<br />
<br />
<h3>
3) Make a Tic-Tac-Toe Game</h3>
<br />
Great for travelling or a few peaceful minutes while dinner's cooking is a cute portable tic-tac-toe game. No need to buy one though when the kids could make their own version. We love the use of rocks for the pieces! Check out <a href="http://goo.gl/u92K7d" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">how to make a Tic-Tac-Toe Game tutorial video here</a>.<br />
<br />
<h3>
4) Make funky Shoe Accessories</h3>
<br />
Kids tired of those boring old shoes? Jazz them up with some cool DIY designs. This is a fabulous creative activity with limitless possibilities! See the <a href="http://goo.gl/M5WUnz" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">How to Make Shoe Accessories tutorial video here</a>.<br />
<br />
<h3>
5) Make a Wood Block Game</h3>
<br />
Who needs to buy toys when you can make them yourself? A fun process and a great game to play over and over. <a href="http://goo.gl/mPuIIB" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">See the Make a Wood Block Game tutorial video here</a>.<br />
<br />
<h3>
6) Make a Pencil Case</h3>
<br />
We certainly don't have a shortage of art materials here, so pencil cases are often in demand. Here's a <a href="http://goo.gl/PbYoo6" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">video tutorial to Make a Pencil Case</a>. Looks like fun!<br />
<br />
<h3>
7) Make a Pin Wheel</h3>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
My kids are always attracted to pin-wheels when we're out and about but they're actually really easy to make! These would look great out in the backyard. See the <a href="http://goo.gl/L7e69i" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Make a Pin Wheel video tutorial here</a>.</div>
<br />
<h3>
8) Make a Felt Dart Board</h3>
<br />
We loved this <a href="http://goo.gl/ntwqpH" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Make a Felt Dart Board tutorial</a>. It looks much easier to make than I would have thought and I know that my kids would have hours of fun aiming for the different numbers and colours. A great indoor project and activity.<br />
<br />
<h3>
9) Make a Ring Toss Game</h3>
<br />
I definitely love DIYs that I know we'll get some real use from. I can see us really enjoying both making and playing with this ring toss game. See <a href="http://goo.gl/dyP7WB" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">how to make a Ring Toss Game video here</a>.<br />
<br />
<h3>
10) Make a Wall Decoration</h3>
<br />
Whilst we love making useful items, sometimes just creating something beautiful and decorative can be really rewarding. They can often make lovely gifts as well. We love the potential that this simple wall decoration DIY has. Easy to make but with so many different ways to customise to suit you or your child's creative flair! See the <a href="http://goo.gl/xoES0m" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Wall Decoration DIY video here</a>.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
- - - - - -</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
One of the fabulous things about attempting <b>DIY projects</b> like these is that over the process of <b>making</b>, you <b>learn</b> and are able to change things to suit yourself. Through <b>experimenting</b>, you often come up with <b>new ideas</b> or plans for how you could <b>adapt</b> the projects to get the result that you are after. So much to learn and <b>explore</b>!<br />
<br />
You can see all the rest of <a href="http://goo.gl/jHDvsC" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Bunnings' kids DIY project videos here</a>. They have a really large range! We found that watching the videos really showed the kids how easily most of these could be put together and inspired them to want to have a go.<br />
Bunnings also run plenty of events and <a href="http://goo.gl/tDJsle" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">kids DIY workshops in store</a>, especially over the school holidays, so check out the <a href="http://goo.gl/tDJsle" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">website</a> for details.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<div style="text-align: left;">
Happy playing,</div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<div style="text-align: left;">
<b><span style="font-size: large;">Debs :)</span></b></div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br />
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<div style="text-align: left;">
<em style="background-color: white; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><span style="color: #111111; font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 21.9833335876465px;">{Disclosure: this is a paid post for Bunnings Warehouse </span></span>sponsored by Nuffnang<span style="color: #111111; font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 21.9833335876465px;">.</span></span><span style="color: #111111; font-family: inherit; line-height: 21.9833335876465px;"> </span></em><em style="background-color: white; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><span style="color: #111111; font-family: inherit; line-height: 21.9833335876465px;">As always, opinions expressed in this post are my own.</span></em>}</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="color: #0b5394;">Look where else we are. Are you following along? :)</span></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/learnwithplayathome" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vkHOFWBJK4o/UYyIgOBU9wI/AAAAAAAAGxo/RvuMjfHQ8L0/s1600/facebook.png" width="45" /></a><a href="http://pinterest.com/debstar4/" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Q4D1znEaQ1o/UYyIhLF1kZI/AAAAAAAAGyA/_ZtdQ6RKoXo/s1600/pinterest.png" width="45" /></a><a href="https://twitter.com/Learn_with_Play" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Bmqmpb9Xyjs/UYyIhMG5E3I/AAAAAAAAGyE/YAcBYCgfHSQ/s1600/twitter.png" width="45" /></a><a href="https://plus.google.com/u/0/113416249899539659575" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-44-9pseqqU4/UYyIgD7LORI/AAAAAAAAGxs/9dX88h__ySA/s1600/google%252B.png" width="45" /></a><a href="http://instagram.com/learnwithplayathome" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2fJM8P2Waec/UYyIgHDR4OI/AAAAAAAAGxw/p3Qh6jbkY3E/s1600/instagram.png" width="45" /></a><a href="mailto:learnwithplayathome@gmail.com" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jxw1Ykf18tU/UYyIgoSn7YI/AAAAAAAAGx0/h0Bdknuiv20/s1600/mail.png" width="45" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="color: #444444;">New Here? Subscribe to get all activities sent directly to you</span></b></div>
<form action="http://feedburner.google.com/fb/a/mailverify" method="post" onsubmit="window.open('http://feedburner.google.com/fb/a/mailverify?uri=LearnWithPlayHome', 'popupwindow', 'scrollbars=yes,width=550,height=520');return true" style="border: 1px solid #ccc; padding: 3px; text-align: center;" target="popupwindow">
Enter your email address:<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<input name="email" style="width: 140px;" type="text" /><br /></div>
<input name="uri" type="hidden" value="LearnWithPlayHome" /><input name="loc" type="hidden" value="en_US" /><input type="submit" value="Subscribe" /><br />
Delivered by <a href="http://feedburner.google.com/" target="_blank">FeedBurner</a></form>
Learn with Play at Homehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08323717740126935795noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6796821888191012398.post-68263829422991528362015-12-23T09:16:00.000+11:002015-12-23T09:16:38.495+11:00Healthy Veggie Christmas Tree Share Platter. Cooking with Kids.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-EuoKAJ_CVDg/VmO20M-G_rI/AAAAAAAAOmE/HBA9XgC2MNc/s1600/Healthy%2BChristmas%2BTree%2BShare%2BPlatter.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-EuoKAJ_CVDg/VmO20M-G_rI/AAAAAAAAOmE/HBA9XgC2MNc/s640/Healthy%2BChristmas%2BTree%2BShare%2BPlatter.jpg" width="448" /></a></div>
<br />
This year we thought that we'd come up with a <b>healthy Christmas share platter</b>, bound to stand out amongst all the sweets and treats that usually adorn the <b>Christmas party table</b>.<br />
<br />
<div>
This <b>fruit </b><i>(my kids wanted to point out that some of the ingredients we use are technically fruits)</i><b> </b>and <b>vegetable Christmas tree share platter </b>would be perfect for taking along to a <b>class party</b> or <b>family get together</b> and is simple enough to <b>get the kids involved in the preparation</b>. I've found over the years that having children regularly involved in cooking and food preparation, makes them more inclined to try new things and gives them the information needed for making future choices for themselves based on their knowledge of foods, our needs and healthy living.<br />
<br /></div>
<div>
<h3>
Healthy Veggie Christmas Tree Share Platter</h3>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RM1vMjubyUw/VmO21QN8ygI/AAAAAAAAOmM/IViDZmdCbFI/s1600/PC060003.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RM1vMjubyUw/VmO21QN8ygI/AAAAAAAAOmM/IViDZmdCbFI/s640/PC060003.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<b>Ingredients:</b> (we used)<br />
<ul>
<li>Celery </li>
<li>Cucumber</li>
<li>Snow peas</li>
<li>Sugar snap peas</li>
<li>Red and Yellow Capsicum (peppers)</li>
<li>Red and yellow cherry tomatoes</li>
<li>Olives (black and green stuffed)</li>
<li>Carrot</li>
<li>Cheese (cheddar cheese slices) <i>Optional- leave out for dairy free option</i></li>
</ul>
<div>
<i><br /></i></div>
<div>
<b>Materials:</b></div>
<div>
<ul>
<li>Knife</li>
<li>Chopping board</li>
<li>Peeler</li>
<li>Star cookie cutter (<i>optional</i>)</li>
<li>Large platter</li>
</ul>
<div>
Don't forget, before you start any food preparation you need to <b>wash your hands</b>.</div>
</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="480" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-PjUBMC2Aiss/VmO22j8dK1I/AAAAAAAAOmU/gaCxo1Xb6jg/s640/PC060007.JPG" width="640" /></div>
Chop your carrot, celery and cucumber into sticks around the same size and length. Depending on your child's knife skills, you might want to help them with this part.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="480" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ETcBeDuOTHU/VmO24AnzwEI/AAAAAAAAOmc/_Cdjt6RZcD0/s640/PC060016.JPG" width="640" /></div>
Older children can assist with the peeling and chopping of the harder vegetables.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="480" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-AVnyOl_1e7M/VmO243XtiHI/AAAAAAAAOmk/MPEvzuhp4RE/s640/PC060025.JPG" width="640" /></div>
Younger children will enjoy cutting stars out of slices of real cheese.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="480" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2PSUlasVqlU/VmO25wiAhMI/AAAAAAAAOms/OmbcCygUzGY/s640/PC060030.JPG" width="640" /></div>
Halve your cherry tomatoes, olives and cut thin slices of capsicum to decorate the tree.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="480" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-YY-KgEjOAkc/VmO27DLGYBI/AAAAAAAAOm0/k_86dIu5R24/s640/PC060033.JPG" width="640" /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="480" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-TP3C-ZJtT_A/VmO28RwWsII/AAAAAAAAOm8/IL1CiGJbAwo/s640/PC060035.JPG" width="640" /></div>
With your ingredients prepped, you are ready to build your tree! Children of all ages can help with this part.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="480" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-E1_xiOx_baU/VmO296yO9sI/AAAAAAAAOnE/NrUBWERjp90/s640/PC060037.JPG" width="640" /></div>
Use the carrot sticks for the base and your cucumber and celery sticks to build the shape of the tree.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="480" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BxVM58qgsog/VmO2_HtVfbI/AAAAAAAAOnM/LP-ckbTBGNM/s640/PC060038.JPG" width="640" /></div>
Layer your snow peas and sugar snap peas over and in your tree.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="480" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tbSh5zWX38E/VmO3AYldyQI/AAAAAAAAOnU/mY_0EetMRi8/s640/PC060045.JPG" width="640" /></div>
Arrange your capsicum strips on top of the tree for tinsel.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="480" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KGuGjBq5XsM/VmO3Be6yawI/AAAAAAAAOnc/lGvTG6CNkVE/s640/PC060047.JPG" width="640" /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="480" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-R34gj7Qe_1Q/VmO3CiKEp7I/AAAAAAAAOnk/VIubE8FM0ag/s640/PC060054.JPG" width="640" /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="480" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-TAmvO-OdXgw/VmO3FHuhyTI/AAAAAAAAOns/NCJ7HAU19DY/s640/PC060058.JPG" width="640" /></div>
Decorate all over the tree with your tomatoes and olives.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="480" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2SJ2CeZXqGI/VmO3HgYrX2I/AAAAAAAAOn0/3zlKNvv0FEc/s640/PC060065.JPG" width="640" /></div>
For the finishing touches, add your star shaped cheese. For a dairy free option, you could cut stars from yellow capsicum.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="480" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-G4f-7-vLBoM/VmO3JIAWTwI/AAAAAAAAOn8/S8Zj0NUeM7U/s640/PC060069.JPG" width="640" /></div>
Serve your tree fresh with your favourite dips and watch it disappear.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ptMSsICnMe0/VmO3LiKXQpI/AAAAAAAAOoM/h1gonDyrdcc/s1600/PC060081.JPG" /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="480" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ojZkBfbUs6A/VmO3Molb0UI/AAAAAAAAOoU/fbWEIYyX1Zw/s640/PC060086.JPG" width="640" /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="480" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-UkKjL4qstxo/VmO3KIdRuFI/AAAAAAAAOoE/rcEeQJiY04A/s640/PC060074.JPG" width="640" /></div>
<br />
We really enjoyed creating this <b>Veggie Christmas Tree</b> and got to practice many <b>kitchen skills</b>, <b>fine-motor skills</b> and talk about different foods and <b>healthy eating</b> along the way. The kids (and I) were really impressed with the results at the end and it was hard to photograph before my kids wanted to dig in!</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<b>Here are some more Christmas Recipe ideas you may want to try with the kids:</b></div>
<ul>
<li><a href="http://www.learnwithplayathome.com/2015/11/no-bake-reindeer-cookies-fun-christmas.html" target="_blank">No Bake Reindeer Cookies</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.learnwithplayathome.com/2012/12/easy-cookie-recipe-cooking-with-kids.html" target="_blank">Simple Cookies</a> (for decorating)</li>
<li><a href="http://www.learnwithplayathome.com/2012/12/10-fun-christmas-food-ideas.html" target="_blank">10 Fun Christmas Food ideas</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.learnwithplayathome.com/2015/10/santa-snacks-fun-christmas-food-ideas.html" target="_blank">Santa Snacks. Fun Christmas food ideas</a></li>
</ul>
</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<div style="text-align: left;">
Happy creating,</div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<div style="text-align: left;">
<b><span style="font-size: large;">Debs :)</span></b></div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></b>
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="color: #0b5394;">Look where else we are. Are you following along? :)</span></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/learnwithplayathome" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vkHOFWBJK4o/UYyIgOBU9wI/AAAAAAAAGxo/RvuMjfHQ8L0/s1600/facebook.png" width="45" /></a><a href="http://pinterest.com/debstar4/" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Q4D1znEaQ1o/UYyIhLF1kZI/AAAAAAAAGyA/_ZtdQ6RKoXo/s1600/pinterest.png" width="45" /></a><a href="https://twitter.com/Learn_with_Play" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Bmqmpb9Xyjs/UYyIhMG5E3I/AAAAAAAAGyE/YAcBYCgfHSQ/s1600/twitter.png" width="45" /></a><a href="https://plus.google.com/u/0/113416249899539659575" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-44-9pseqqU4/UYyIgD7LORI/AAAAAAAAGxs/9dX88h__ySA/s1600/google%252B.png" width="45" /></a><a href="http://instagram.com/learnwithplayathome" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2fJM8P2Waec/UYyIgHDR4OI/AAAAAAAAGxw/p3Qh6jbkY3E/s1600/instagram.png" width="45" /></a><a href="mailto:learnwithplayathome@gmail.com" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jxw1Ykf18tU/UYyIgoSn7YI/AAAAAAAAGx0/h0Bdknuiv20/s1600/mail.png" width="45" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="color: #444444;">New Here? Subscribe to get all activities sent directly to you</span></b></div>
<form action="http://feedburner.google.com/fb/a/mailverify" method="post" onsubmit="window.open('http://feedburner.google.com/fb/a/mailverify?uri=LearnWithPlayHome', 'popupwindow', 'scrollbars=yes,width=550,height=520');return true" style="border: 1px solid #ccc; padding: 3px; text-align: center;" target="popupwindow">
Enter your email address:<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<input name="email" style="width: 140px;" type="text" /><br /></div>
<input name="uri" type="hidden" value="LearnWithPlayHome" /><input name="loc" type="hidden" value="en_US" /><input type="submit" value="Subscribe" /><br />
Delivered by <a href="http://feedburner.google.com/" target="_blank">FeedBurner</a></form>
</div>
Learn with Play at Homehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08323717740126935795noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6796821888191012398.post-54863582487762972022015-12-21T13:54:00.001+11:002015-12-21T13:54:37.803+11:00DIY Disney inspired Christmas Gift-Tags for Kids<div>
<div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ylHSHIKZW9E/Vm6J-XdebzI/AAAAAAAAOpg/j4UC3vHkezg/s1600/Disney%2BDIY%2BChristmas%2BGift%2BTags.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ylHSHIKZW9E/Vm6J-XdebzI/AAAAAAAAOpg/j4UC3vHkezg/s640/Disney%2BDIY%2BChristmas%2BGift%2BTags.jpg" width="448" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://goo.gl/xaQyin" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-SKFSsKf7SRQ/VmkeqyPccSI/AAAAAAAAOo8/S0-Miy9mMoQ/s1600/Header%2BImage%2B-%2BLWPAH.png" /></a></div>
<br /></div>
<br />
Christmas always ends up being such a <b>crafty, creative time</b> for my kids and I. We love <b>hand-making</b> <a href="http://www.learnwithplayathome.com/2015/12/mickey-and-minnie-mouse-washi-tape.html">Christmas cards</a>, making fun <a href="http://www.learnwithplayathome.com/2015/11/no-bake-reindeer-cookies-fun-christmas.html">Christmas food</a>, playing with <a href="http://www.learnwithplayathome.com/2014/11/peppermint-scented-candy-cane-playdough.html">Christmas playdough</a> and so much more! It's always fun jazzing up the gifts with our own wrapping paper, ribbons or gift-tags and what I love about it the most, is creating those <b>magical Christmas moments</b> together that will become precious memories over time.<br />
<br />
To get the kids excited in creating our <b>Christmas gift-tags, </b>we decided they would feature our favourite <b>Disney Junior</b> characters. Mickey and Minnie Mouse, (classic favourites) and Doc McStuffins, who we love for her <a href="http://www.learnwithplayathome.com/2014/10/doc-tober-on-disney-junior-promoting.html">healthy living messages</a> and kind, <a href="http://www.learnwithplayathome.com/2014/10/toy-doctor-pretend-play-with-free.html">caring nature</a>.<br />
<br />
Making the gift-tags ourselves allowed for the children to practice <b>fine-motor skills,</b> (it's not easy to trace and work with small items), <b>cutting skills</b> (this part was especially good for the younger kids) and even some <b>reading and writing skills</b>, in order to label the gift-tags. <i>Younger children may need some assistance with the writing, or you could provide stickers or stamps that they could use instead.</i><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-fQZqRpwY4UY/Vm6J_dEZCcI/AAAAAAAAOpo/wFZ5ttI5cjo/s1600/PC140524.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-fQZqRpwY4UY/Vm6J_dEZCcI/AAAAAAAAOpo/wFZ5ttI5cjo/s640/PC140524.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<b>Materials:</b><br />
<ul>
<li>Blank gift tags or gift tag template and coloured cardboard (here is a <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B2UEah6YmII6blltRGdLMzVSdDQ/view?usp=sharing" target="_blank">free printable gift-tag template</a>)</li>
<li>Scissors</li>
<li>Hole-punch</li>
<li>Marker</li>
<li>Glue</li>
<li>Ribbon</li>
<li>Fave Disney character pictures (we just printed some off the <a href="http://goo.gl/LiirWZ" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Disney Junior Website</a> or you could always buy some stickers)</li>
</ul>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Q90PODpY9ng/Vm6KAHcBt9I/AAAAAAAAOp0/03Doi8WrDTI/s1600/PC140527.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Q90PODpY9ng/Vm6KAHcBt9I/AAAAAAAAOp0/03Doi8WrDTI/s640/PC140527.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
Either print our your gift-tags on the coloured card of your choice, or trace a plain template onto some coloured card. As we were using a few different characters, the kids wanted to match the colours of each character to the cardboard colour.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Qkxwfs1wVy4/Vm6KA92bheI/AAAAAAAAOp4/r7FCt9XyzN8/s1600/PC140531.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Qkxwfs1wVy4/Vm6KA92bheI/AAAAAAAAOp4/r7FCt9XyzN8/s640/PC140531.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
Cut out your gift tag.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QoLurhBTk4E/Vm6KBgOhZRI/AAAAAAAAOqA/0sGHc8wrXvI/s1600/PC140534.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QoLurhBTk4E/Vm6KBgOhZRI/AAAAAAAAOqA/0sGHc8wrXvI/s640/PC140534.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
Cut out your character picture.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-dqEQo0zbjvw/Vm6KCp3PStI/AAAAAAAAOqI/2AiJWIuKSSc/s1600/PC140538.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-dqEQo0zbjvw/Vm6KCp3PStI/AAAAAAAAOqI/2AiJWIuKSSc/s640/PC140538.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
Glue next to the pointed end of the gift-tag<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-65P7-uMv4aY/Vm6KDd2tEyI/AAAAAAAAOqU/nH_mI4bRmY4/s1600/PC140539.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-65P7-uMv4aY/Vm6KDd2tEyI/AAAAAAAAOqU/nH_mI4bRmY4/s640/PC140539.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
Write or draw any greeting on your gift tag. You will also want to label who it is for and who it is from. You can put this on the front or the back.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-OpZQbESPdX8/Vm6KEGdTGoI/AAAAAAAAOqY/2C2z1Cs-Mnw/s1600/PC140542.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-OpZQbESPdX8/Vm6KEGdTGoI/AAAAAAAAOqY/2C2z1Cs-Mnw/s640/PC140542.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
Punch a hole near the point at the end of the gift-tag and then tie some ribbon through the hole.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-mljSmsP_aBg/Vm6KE9cCm6I/AAAAAAAAOqg/fIKFE4yQvqk/s1600/PC140546.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-mljSmsP_aBg/Vm6KE9cCm6I/AAAAAAAAOqg/fIKFE4yQvqk/s640/PC140546.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
Children can play around with the text and format for their gift-tag. It's a good idea to first provide children with a blank gift-tag so that they can practice their wording and the sizing of their text. Often trial and error works best for this.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-x7WU9vvdI5A/Vm6KGW9PDbI/AAAAAAAAOqo/KUFYUBPRvQQ/s1600/PC140550.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-x7WU9vvdI5A/Vm6KGW9PDbI/AAAAAAAAOqo/KUFYUBPRvQQ/s640/PC140550.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
When your gift-tags are done, coordinate them with matching coloured ribbons or bows and pop them on the presents for the lucky recipients.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-I2l0FtQLYiU/Vm6KHpswjbI/AAAAAAAAOqw/sxAf8YICYzw/s1600/PC140553.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-I2l0FtQLYiU/Vm6KHpswjbI/AAAAAAAAOqw/sxAf8YICYzw/s640/PC140553.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Vgd7rTx5RMQ/Vm6KIprO5AI/AAAAAAAAOq4/yGZoMtognP8/s1600/PC140563.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Vgd7rTx5RMQ/Vm6KIprO5AI/AAAAAAAAOq4/yGZoMtognP8/s640/PC140563.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
There's just something about that homemade touch that makes them more special!<br />
<br />
<b><a href="http://goo.gl/LiirWZ" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Disney Junior</a> The Channel</b> is where magical storytelling comes to life and is available on Foxtel, channel 709 and Fetch. I love that the Disney Junior characters and stories cover <b>learning areas</b> from <b>early language</b> and <b>maths</b> skills to <b>healthy living</b> and <b>social and emotional development. </b>You can use this inspiration for recreating your own Magical Christmas Moment with your little ones and share these with friends and family. Disney Junior Australia and New Zealand would love to see your ideas so be sure to tag in <i>@DisneyJuniorAUNZ</i> and <i>#DJMagical Moments</i>.<br />
<br />
I've found that watching shows with familiar and trusted characters, that are promoting the same <b>messages and values</b> that we teach at home, can be very useful in helping children consolidate the knowledge and entice them to want to recreate the behaviours. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<b>Here are some more Christmas Activity ideas you may want to try with the kids:</b></div>
<ul>
<li><a href="http://www.learnwithplayathome.com/2013/11/25-christmas-decorations-kids-can-make.html" target="_blank">26 Christmas Decorations kids can make</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.learnwithplayathome.com/2012/12/five-fabulous-christmas-tree-activities.html" target="_blank">5 Christmas Tree Activities</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.learnwithplayathome.com/2012/12/shivery-snow-for-outdoor-sensory-play.html" target="_blank">How to make your own Shivery Snow</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.learnwithplayathome.com/2013/12/diy-chistmas-tree-playdough-gift-bags.html" target="_blank">Playdough Christmas Tree Printable Gift Bags</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.learnwithplayathome.com/2013/11/christmas-decoration-creation-station.html" target="_blank">Christmas Decoration Creation Station</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.learnwithplayathome.com/2013/12/5-simple-fun-christmas-sensory-play.html" target="_blank">5 Christmas themed Sensory play ideas</a></li>
</ul>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<b><br /></b></div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<div style="text-align: left;">
Happy creating,</div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<div style="text-align: left;">
<b><span style="font-size: large;">Debs :)</span></b></div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://goo.gl/xaQyin" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="212" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4xqnfZduuT8/Vmkeqxt4OWI/AAAAAAAAOo4/Jm9JPHmY_Us/s640/Footer%2BImage%2B-%2BLWPAH.png" width="640" /></a></div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="color: #0b5394;">Look where else we are. Are you following along? :)</span></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/learnwithplayathome" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vkHOFWBJK4o/UYyIgOBU9wI/AAAAAAAAGxo/RvuMjfHQ8L0/s1600/facebook.png" width="45" /></a><a href="http://pinterest.com/debstar4/" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Q4D1znEaQ1o/UYyIhLF1kZI/AAAAAAAAGyA/_ZtdQ6RKoXo/s1600/pinterest.png" width="45" /></a><a href="https://twitter.com/Learn_with_Play" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Bmqmpb9Xyjs/UYyIhMG5E3I/AAAAAAAAGyE/YAcBYCgfHSQ/s1600/twitter.png" width="45" /></a><a href="https://plus.google.com/u/0/113416249899539659575" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-44-9pseqqU4/UYyIgD7LORI/AAAAAAAAGxs/9dX88h__ySA/s1600/google%252B.png" width="45" /></a><a href="http://instagram.com/learnwithplayathome" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2fJM8P2Waec/UYyIgHDR4OI/AAAAAAAAGxw/p3Qh6jbkY3E/s1600/instagram.png" width="45" /></a><a href="mailto:learnwithplayathome@gmail.com" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jxw1Ykf18tU/UYyIgoSn7YI/AAAAAAAAGx0/h0Bdknuiv20/s1600/mail.png" width="45" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="color: #444444;">New Here? Subscribe to get all activities sent directly to you</span></b></div>
<form action="http://feedburner.google.com/fb/a/mailverify" method="post" onsubmit="window.open('http://feedburner.google.com/fb/a/mailverify?uri=LearnWithPlayHome', 'popupwindow', 'scrollbars=yes,width=550,height=520');return true" style="border: 1px solid #ccc; padding: 3px; text-align: center;" target="popupwindow">
Enter your email address:<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<input name="email" style="width: 140px;" type="text" /><br /></div>
<input name="uri" type="hidden" value="LearnWithPlayHome" /><input name="loc" type="hidden" value="en_US" /><input type="submit" value="Subscribe" /><br />
Delivered by <a href="http://feedburner.google.com/" target="_blank">FeedBurner</a></form>
Learn with Play at Homehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08323717740126935795noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6796821888191012398.post-51150019589772775152015-12-14T07:00:00.000+11:002020-08-02T09:02:16.784+10:0010 Super Cool Dinosaur Activities<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xlDhzusM9pQ/VkaUdTDtrMI/AAAAAAAAOVQ/JbQ0oNe7PXI/s1600/10%2BDinosaur%2BActivities%2Bfor%2Bkids.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xlDhzusM9pQ/VkaUdTDtrMI/AAAAAAAAOVQ/JbQ0oNe7PXI/s640/10%2BDinosaur%2BActivities%2Bfor%2Bkids.jpg" width="448" /></span></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">There are not many children that I know, that aren't fascinated by <b>dinosaurs</b> in some way. (Or adults, come to think of it). These incredible creatures, larger and more interesting than we can really imagine, that lived on this earth long before we arrived!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">If your children love dinosaurs, here are a collection of 10 fabulous <b>dinosaur themed activities</b> that incorporate <b>sensory play, maths, imagination, storytelling, creating, crafting</b> and more! Enjoy!</span><br />
<div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<!--EndFragment--><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<b><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">1) Handprint Dinosaurs</span></b><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XxNhslvE420/VkaRpjOgxCI/AAAAAAAAOSM/mToSy4zZcWo/s1600/PB110672.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XxNhslvE420/VkaRpjOgxCI/AAAAAAAAOSM/mToSy4zZcWo/s640/PB110672.JPG" width="640" /></span></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Create your own dinosaurs, using your very own handprint for their body, legs and neck. Add eyes and a tail to complete your creation.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-LAm9ShwDuPo/VkaRqvcKbCI/AAAAAAAAOSc/Lo5bbgLvpEk/s1600/PB110615.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-LAm9ShwDuPo/VkaRqvcKbCI/AAAAAAAAOSc/Lo5bbgLvpEk/s640/PB110615.JPG" width="640" /></span></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Materials:</b> Easy Wash paint, paintbrush, paper, googly eyes (optional), marker.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-qxSWhsT3p3o/VkaRrVUifLI/AAAAAAAAOSk/BsSNX7X2F0Y/s1600/PB110641.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-qxSWhsT3p3o/VkaRrVUifLI/AAAAAAAAOSk/BsSNX7X2F0Y/s640/PB110641.JPG" width="640" /></span></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hZNo9vzZysQ/VkaRr4WQP0I/AAAAAAAAOSo/fVJanN7-ZWc/s1600/PB110644.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hZNo9vzZysQ/VkaRr4WQP0I/AAAAAAAAOSo/fVJanN7-ZWc/s640/PB110644.JPG" width="640" /></span></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">TIP: To avoid really awkward twisting of the wrist, print your handprint with your hand around the right way and then turn your paper upside down to get the "dinosaur legs" on the bottom of the page </span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Ddoo2pfS3BE/VkaRstoXdII/AAAAAAAAOSs/bG43B4GrEmM/s1600/PB110648.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Ddoo2pfS3BE/VkaRstoXdII/AAAAAAAAOSs/bG43B4GrEmM/s640/PB110648.JPG" width="640" /></span></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">To make the head, either print an extra thumb print at the end of your dinosaurs "neck" or slightly move your thumb when making your handprint to create a head shape. Press your googly eyes on while the paint is still wet. Alternatively you could stick them on with glue or draw on eyes once the paint has dried.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3qSQX_zydqQ/VkaRtlfRcqI/AAAAAAAAOTE/bXSEbs6AoCE/s1600/PB110650.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3qSQX_zydqQ/VkaRtlfRcqI/AAAAAAAAOTE/bXSEbs6AoCE/s640/PB110650.JPG" width="640" /></span></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Use your paintbrush to add a tail to your dinosaur. You could also add spikes or any other details you'd like.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cYElXBNfoRM/VkaRucLhiVI/AAAAAAAAOUE/HQpj1CdKkgU/s1600/PB110674.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cYElXBNfoRM/VkaRucLhiVI/AAAAAAAAOUE/HQpj1CdKkgU/s640/PB110674.JPG" width="640" /></span></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Add further details with a permanent marker once the paint is dry.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-CLQoGuWLN7U/VkaRvBzHqSI/AAAAAAAAOS8/qUdumEgQqyw/s1600/PB110660.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-CLQoGuWLN7U/VkaRvBzHqSI/AAAAAAAAOS8/qUdumEgQqyw/s640/PB110660.JPG" width="640" /></span></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> What cool colours and patterns would you make your dinosaur?</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bjWVPq0OZ3U/VkaRwGWYdSI/AAAAAAAAOTk/tK1-bnBuN5o/s1600/PB120681.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bjWVPq0OZ3U/VkaRwGWYdSI/AAAAAAAAOTk/tK1-bnBuN5o/s640/PB120681.JPG" width="640" /></span></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">We thought that this little guy, made by my 4 year old, looked a lot like an orange spotted grinning Arlo.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<b><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">2) Create your own Dinosaur World</span></b><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eBMfZ5c85Og/VlaBtWsHANI/AAAAAAAAOeE/r9OJ8px53S4/s1600/PB260015.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eBMfZ5c85Og/VlaBtWsHANI/AAAAAAAAOeE/r9OJ8px53S4/s640/PB260015.JPG" width="640" /></span></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> <span style="text-align: center;">Provide your child with materials to make their own Dinosaur World for pretend play.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Materials</b> they could use are:</span><br />
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">a large tub</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">your favourite plastic dinosaurs</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">rocks</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">trees (use plastic shrubbery or collect some leaves and twigs from outside)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">smaller tub for lake/pond (optional)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">water (optional)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">felt for grass or water</span></li>
</ul>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/--PIpSe6mHiE/VlaBw0Mws4I/AAAAAAAAOeI/MvbaPuh_aF8/s1600/PB260017.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/--PIpSe6mHiE/VlaBw0Mws4I/AAAAAAAAOeI/MvbaPuh_aF8/s640/PB260017.JPG" width="640" /></span></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7fBs6Zx0Ef0/VlaB3hnyNQI/AAAAAAAAOeQ/8YOPMY33CJk/s1600/PB260022.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7fBs6Zx0Ef0/VlaB3hnyNQI/AAAAAAAAOeQ/8YOPMY33CJk/s640/PB260022.JPG" width="640" /></span></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ylr7YMZaXFg/VlaCjl3L0HI/AAAAAAAAOeg/RVhK3QaIkfg/s1600/PB260024.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ylr7YMZaXFg/VlaCjl3L0HI/AAAAAAAAOeg/RVhK3QaIkfg/s640/PB260024.JPG" width="640" /></span></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-oe1Bj07slis/VlaCxyF78vI/AAAAAAAAOew/WDgO_U2wYpU/s1600/PB260026.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-oe1Bj07slis/VlaCxyF78vI/AAAAAAAAOew/WDgO_U2wYpU/s640/PB260026.JPG" width="640" /></span></a><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5sF0fQDLaXw/VlaCwokw56I/AAAAAAAAOeo/HsYe0TDg5qw/s1600/PB260028.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5sF0fQDLaXw/VlaCwokw56I/AAAAAAAAOeo/HsYe0TDg5qw/s640/PB260028.JPG" width="640" /></span></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-EYb0P-n0iq4/VlaDIvbX7yI/AAAAAAAAOfA/bKz5fkRQGOE/s1600/PB260032.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-EYb0P-n0iq4/VlaDIvbX7yI/AAAAAAAAOfA/bKz5fkRQGOE/s640/PB260032.JPG" width="640" /></span></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-V-0GSc4bzhk/VlaDEVSfRRI/AAAAAAAAOe4/AHj-9j82g4E/s1600/PB260036.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-V-0GSc4bzhk/VlaDEVSfRRI/AAAAAAAAOe4/AHj-9j82g4E/s640/PB260036.JPG" width="640" /></span></a></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Have fun playing, using imagination and story telling to create adventures for your dino friends in their new dinosaur land!</span></div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<b><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">3) Dinosaurs in Sticky Mud</span></b><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Z_Gaj1qFmtI/VmtjHEorfpI/AAAAAAAAOpI/sfpFp0B8Vmk/s1600/sticky%2Bmud%2Bpic%2Bedit.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Z_Gaj1qFmtI/VmtjHEorfpI/AAAAAAAAOpI/sfpFp0B8Vmk/s640/sticky%2Bmud%2Bpic%2Bedit.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">For a super sensory activity, full of messy imaginative play, have a go at this sticky mud dinosaur tub! You can find all the <a href="http://www.learnwithplayathome.com/2015/04/dinosaurs-in-sticky-mud-sensory-play.html" target="_blank">details for making it here</a>.</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<b><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">4) Paper Plate-a-sauruses (with free printable templates)</span></b><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Ka0K-Xpzkc8/VkaSFs6gFCI/AAAAAAAAOVA/iWJHeqM5g3E/s1600/Paperplate-a-saurus.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Ka0K-Xpzkc8/VkaSFs6gFCI/AAAAAAAAOVA/iWJHeqM5g3E/s640/Paperplate-a-saurus.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b><br /></b>
Use some basic supplies, including these <a href="http://www.learnwithplayathome.com/2013/07/paper-plate-dinosaur-craft-for-kids.html" target="_blank">free printable dinosaur templates</a> to create your own paper plate dinosaur friends. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Use your creations for decoration or story telling. You could even try sticking a craft stick to your designs, turning the lights out and shining a torch on your dinosaur for some cool dinosaur shadow puppets!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">My kids noticed that the Diplodocus looked a lot like Arlo the Apatosaurus. They were right! They do look similar and in fact, they are both from the Diplodocidae Family.</span><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1c4ScQFIuIM/VkaSGFmGL1I/AAAAAAAAOU0/FHI-_879bn4/s1600/dinosaurs7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1c4ScQFIuIM/VkaSGFmGL1I/AAAAAAAAOU0/FHI-_879bn4/s640/dinosaurs7.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">This super cool activity made by The Craft Train for Learn with Play at Home</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b><br /></b>
<b>5) Sandpit Dino Dig!</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1f0DM1c2kJo/VkaR4VkQorI/AAAAAAAAOTs/_H6_s8INkkc/s1600/IMG_8906.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1f0DM1c2kJo/VkaR4VkQorI/AAAAAAAAOTs/_H6_s8INkkc/s640/IMG_8906.JPG" width="640" /></span></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">How about trying out the role of paleontologist with your own dinosaur bone excavation in the sandpit? You can see more pictures of our dino dig (and whole <b>Dinosaur Party</b>) <a href="http://www.learnwithplayathome.com/2013/11/dinosaur-party-ideas.html" target="_blank">here</a>.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tbAxG3KIiec/VkaR5qrfnwI/AAAAAAAAOUk/OuATRQsIwnc/s1600/IMG_8908.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tbAxG3KIiec/VkaR5qrfnwI/AAAAAAAAOUk/OuATRQsIwnc/s640/IMG_8908.JPG" width="640" /></span></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/--ud-m8Vl-dg/VkaR6w62zCI/AAAAAAAAOT8/n8WjRfDMbqY/s1600/IMG_9122.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/--ud-m8Vl-dg/VkaR6w62zCI/AAAAAAAAOT8/n8WjRfDMbqY/s640/IMG_9122.JPG" width="640" /></span></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<b><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">6) Make your Own Dinosaur Bones</span></b><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-gXqg-m3cD4Q/VkaR71qJNAI/AAAAAAAAOUA/afSRktlFeoE/s1600/Dinosaur-Bones-Maths-Game-Activity-666x1000.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="432" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-gXqg-m3cD4Q/VkaR71qJNAI/AAAAAAAAOUA/afSRktlFeoE/s640/Dinosaur-Bones-Maths-Game-Activity-666x1000.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Picture by The Imagination Tree</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">If you don't have any plastic dinosaur bones to dig up, fear not! You could make your own using <a href="http://theimaginationtree.com/2013/10/digging-dinosaur-bones-maths-game.html" target="_blank">these instructions</a> from <i>The Imagination Tree</i>. You'll also see some great ideas on how to use the bones to work on maths concepts such as length and counting.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<b><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">7) Create Dinosaur Fossils from Coffee Grounds</span></b><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qOBL0fCMqWw/VkaR9BvtF2I/AAAAAAAAOUQ/ucsJhCiixpI/s1600/dinosaur%2Bcoffee%2Bground%2Bfossils.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qOBL0fCMqWw/VkaR9BvtF2I/AAAAAAAAOUQ/ucsJhCiixpI/s640/dinosaur%2Bcoffee%2Bground%2Bfossils.JPG" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Picture by I Can Teach My Child</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">As well as bones, you can make some very cool dinosaur fossils out of coffee grounds using <a href="http://www.icanteachmychild.com/dinosaur-fossils/" target="_blank">these instructions</a> from <i>I Can Teach My Child</i>.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<b><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">8) Make Dinosaur Masks</span></b><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Use paper-plates to make your favourite dinosaur masks and use them for imaginary play. Or, you can print out some <a href="http://www.itsybitsyfun.com/dinosaur-masks.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">free Dinosaur Masks</a> from <i>Itsy Bitsy Fun</i> or from <i>Mother Natured</i> <a href="http://mothernatured.com/2013/09/03/printable-dinosaur-masks-for-prehistoric-play/" target="_blank">here</a>. What would you use to make an Apatosaurus mask?</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<b><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">9) Cardboard Tube Dinosaurs</span></b><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-b8pImwHlmLI/VkaSIFgp9zI/AAAAAAAAOU8/REKpRrRiZts/s1600/toilet%2Broll%2Bdinosaurs.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-b8pImwHlmLI/VkaSIFgp9zI/AAAAAAAAOU8/REKpRrRiZts/s640/toilet%2Broll%2Bdinosaurs.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Picture by The Craft Train</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Get crafty making these adorable dinosaurs from <i>The Craft Train</i>, using cardboard tubes or toilet paper rolls. See the full instructions on <a href="http://www.thecrafttrain.com/1/post/2015/03/toilet-roll-dinosaurs.html" target="_blank">how to make them here</a>. If you collect enough cardboard rolls, you could even create an entire prehistoric land!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<b><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">10) "The Good Dinosaur" Colouring Sheets</span></b><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-PnjO5KDOLfk/VkaR-1K7HLI/AAAAAAAAOUo/KTFs08A6n5k/s1600/arlo%2Band%2Bspot%2Bcolouring%2Bsheets.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-PnjO5KDOLfk/VkaR-1K7HLI/AAAAAAAAOUo/KTFs08A6n5k/s640/arlo%2Band%2Bspot%2Bcolouring%2Bsheets.JPG" width="640" /></span></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Decorate your favourite characters from The Good Dinosaur movie with these <b>free printable colouring sheets</b>. Click on the links to download and print your favourites. Paint, colour or collage them as you like.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> ** <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B2UEah6YmII6NmFqVUo3M2ZXTjJDd1FzTURmb21KV0RkMjVv/view?usp=sharing" target="_blank">Arlo & Spot 1</a> ** <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B2UEah6YmII6SkxRRVcySGFJZXoyM0hUaVpELXJmV294Skhz/view?usp=sharing" target="_blank">Arlo & Spot 2</a> ** <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B2UEah6YmII6cVZxalEyN24zbmdlc3diVmFhTXItWGtRNzhz/view?usp=sharing" target="_blank">Butch</a> ** <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B2UEah6YmII6Y09yRmtDdzZheWIybl9lV3pmZFZMSHRrcGZv/view?usp=sharing" target="_blank">Ramsey</a> ** <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B2UEah6YmII6NFNpeDdpdGtXZWxQLWw0UVJQV1M1XzlfWV9N/view?usp=sharing" target="_blank">Nash</a> **</span></div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-3cOzQHMz7p8/VkaSAI_seCI/AAAAAAAAOUg/e4kACfmo0jY/s1600/the%2Bgood%2Bdinosaur%2Bcolouring%2Bsheets.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-3cOzQHMz7p8/VkaSAI_seCI/AAAAAAAAOUg/e4kACfmo0jY/s640/the%2Bgood%2Bdinosaur%2Bcolouring%2Bsheets.JPG" width="480" /></span></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Perhaps you could use them as inspiration to <b>write your very own story</b> imagining what it might be like if dinosaurs never became extinct, or "If I had a dinosaur as a friend". </span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Happy creating!</span></div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Do you have any dinosaur fans in your family?</span></b></div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Happy playing,</span></div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<div style="text-align: left;">
<b><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Debs :)</span></b></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Look where else we are. Are you following along? :)</span></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/learnwithplayathome" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vkHOFWBJK4o/UYyIgOBU9wI/AAAAAAAAGxo/RvuMjfHQ8L0/s1600/facebook.png" width="45" /></a><a href="http://pinterest.com/debstar4/" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Q4D1znEaQ1o/UYyIhLF1kZI/AAAAAAAAGyA/_ZtdQ6RKoXo/s1600/pinterest.png" width="45" /></a><a href="https://twitter.com/Learn_with_Play" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Bmqmpb9Xyjs/UYyIhMG5E3I/AAAAAAAAGyE/YAcBYCgfHSQ/s1600/twitter.png" width="45" /></a><a href="https://plus.google.com/u/0/113416249899539659575" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-44-9pseqqU4/UYyIgD7LORI/AAAAAAAAGxs/9dX88h__ySA/s1600/google%252B.png" width="45" /></a><a href="http://instagram.com/learnwithplayathome" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2fJM8P2Waec/UYyIgHDR4OI/AAAAAAAAGxw/p3Qh6jbkY3E/s1600/instagram.png" width="45" /></a><a href="mailto:learnwithplayathome@gmail.com" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jxw1Ykf18tU/UYyIgoSn7YI/AAAAAAAAGx0/h0Bdknuiv20/s1600/mail.png" width="45" /></a></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<form action="http://feedburner.google.com/fb/a/mailverify" method="post" onsubmit="window.open('http://feedburner.google.com/fb/a/mailverify?uri=LearnWithPlayHome', 'popupwindow', 'scrollbars=yes,width=550,height=520');return true" style="border: 1px solid #ccc; padding: 3px; text-align: center;" target="popupwindow">
</form>
</div>
Learn with Play at Homehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08323717740126935795noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6796821888191012398.post-44929626910566241252015-12-11T08:09:00.000+11:002015-12-11T11:08:46.752+11:00Mickey and Minnie Mouse Washi Tape Christmas Cards<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-E-7OQtIS45o/Vl6WMsQBowI/AAAAAAAAOg8/y7-v4A3Nm8I/s1600/PC020206.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-E-7OQtIS45o/Vl6WMsQBowI/AAAAAAAAOg8/y7-v4A3Nm8I/s640/PC020206.JPG" width="448" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://goo.gl/oFpAiZ" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SKFSsKf7SRQ/VmkeqyPccSI/AAAAAAAAOo0/1qU7y2CbRRU/s1600/Header%2BImage%2B-%2BLWPAH.png" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
One of the things that I love about making <b>Christmas crafts</b> with my kids is creating memories together. We still giggle about a big glitter spill we had a couple of years ago with our <a href="http://www.learnwithplayathome.com/2013/11/christmas-decoration-creation-station.html" target="_blank">Christmas Decoration Creation Station</a> and we love rediscovering ornaments we've made over the years, when it comes to decorating time.<br />
<br />
Whenever possible, we make our own greeting cards, as the process is full of learning and practicing various skills. We also love the individualised end results we get by making them by hand. They're just that little bit more special!<br />
<br />
Inspired by <a href="http://goo.gl/LiirWZ" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Disney Junior</a>'s Mickey Mouse Clubhouse, we made some cute Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse inspired Christmas cards, using a fun process to <b>make our own stickers out of washi tape!</b><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-X5IhOBDos3Q/Vl6WNWDP2mI/AAAAAAAAOhA/JUzdh2VwLy8/s1600/PC020157.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-X5IhOBDos3Q/Vl6WNWDP2mI/AAAAAAAAOhA/JUzdh2VwLy8/s640/PC020157.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<b>Materials:</b><br />
<ul>
<li>Washi tape (black, red and pink)</li>
<li>Grease-proof paper (baking paper)</li>
<li>Pen (thin permanent marker works well)</li>
<li>Recycled cardboard (to make a template)</li>
<li>Scissors</li>
<li>Blank cards</li>
<li>White paper</li>
<li>Holepunch</li>
<li>Gluestick</li>
<li>Letter stickers (optional)</li>
</ul>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-iUWhfiUfALs/Vl6WOLPRNXI/AAAAAAAAOi4/VcLX9DG38Zw/s1600/PC020165.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-iUWhfiUfALs/Vl6WOLPRNXI/AAAAAAAAOi4/VcLX9DG38Zw/s640/PC020165.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
Use a scrap of recycled cardboard to make a Mickey Mouse silhouette template and use it to trace an outline on some grease-proof paper. <i>To make a Mickey Mouse silhouette, children can look for circular objects that would be the right size to trace or alternatively, there are many copies of the image online that you could use to print a template.</i><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-j-8-fPAjjm4/Vl6WOmYqqrI/AAAAAAAAOhQ/iMHOwySZXtc/s1600/PC020168.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-j-8-fPAjjm4/Vl6WOmYqqrI/AAAAAAAAOhQ/iMHOwySZXtc/s640/PC020168.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
Stick strips of the washi tape on the grease-proof paper over your design, starting from the bottom. <i>Children can rip the lengths of tape as it doesn't matter if the edges aren't straight.</i><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5bDtIIiZc7s/Vl6WPNJrt4I/AAAAAAAAOhY/UnYvElALY1c/s1600/PC020172.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5bDtIIiZc7s/Vl6WPNJrt4I/AAAAAAAAOhY/UnYvElALY1c/s640/PC020172.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
Overlap your tape with each new piece put on. <i>Children can work on the spacing and overlapping of the tape, attempting to get it straight. It's not a big deal if the tape isn't straight, so long as it overlaps the piece below it. </i><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-WYF0cHK17ZA/Vl6WPy3d1zI/AAAAAAAAOhw/wKSVT-t83Ao/s1600/PC020175.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-WYF0cHK17ZA/Vl6WPy3d1zI/AAAAAAAAOhw/wKSVT-t83Ao/s640/PC020175.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Ou5Cego41UM/Vl6WQuUPi1I/AAAAAAAAOic/4lXUXCeRXuE/s1600/PC020176.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Ou5Cego41UM/Vl6WQuUPi1I/AAAAAAAAOic/4lXUXCeRXuE/s640/PC020176.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
For the Mickey and Minnie Mouse design, cover the bottom half with either red (Mickey) or pink (Minnie) and then the top half in black.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zAT2J5SAh_Y/Vl6WRFgeKLI/AAAAAAAAOho/hi-qFdNG0FY/s1600/PC020177.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zAT2J5SAh_Y/Vl6WRFgeKLI/AAAAAAAAOho/hi-qFdNG0FY/s640/PC020177.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-a387Nbjf2H0/Vl6WRxk2OdI/AAAAAAAAOjQ/NZFPxjsTmgw/s1600/PC020180.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-a387Nbjf2H0/Vl6WRxk2OdI/AAAAAAAAOjQ/NZFPxjsTmgw/s640/PC020180.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
When your whole design is covered, flip it over and cut out around the line. <i>Depending on your child's scissor skills, you may want to help them with this part.</i><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZZxrRxli9oY/Vl6WSl__BlI/AAAAAAAAOjM/lENHoeM9wCg/s1600/PC020182.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZZxrRxli9oY/Vl6WSl__BlI/AAAAAAAAOjM/lENHoeM9wCg/s640/PC020182.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
Now your <b>washi tape sticker </b>is ready! Peel off the backing paper just like you would on a regular sticker and stick into place on your blank card.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-69G1RnNkvR0/Vl6WTI_MxxI/AAAAAAAAOiw/3esyW-ixmbg/s1600/PC020185.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-69G1RnNkvR0/Vl6WTI_MxxI/AAAAAAAAOiw/3esyW-ixmbg/s640/PC020185.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5BXdkIcHF4w/Vl6WT0Q_OfI/AAAAAAAAOiA/0mMIQ3kzxOk/s1600/PC020186.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5BXdkIcHF4w/Vl6WT0Q_OfI/AAAAAAAAOiA/0mMIQ3kzxOk/s640/PC020186.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
For the white dots, we punched a few holes from some white paper and then stuck them down with a little bit of glue.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-s_zsgI5mESA/Vl6WUaA8voI/AAAAAAAAOiE/7ulv3F4Qd58/s1600/PC020189.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-s_zsgI5mESA/Vl6WUaA8voI/AAAAAAAAOiE/7ulv3F4Qd58/s640/PC020189.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
Add any text you'd like on your card, and voila! All done! <i>I love using letter stickers or stamps for this part. Plenty of great literacy learning involved with finding and placing the correct letters. Handwriting is generally practiced inside the card when writing the message.</i><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-m1yXadWMLSo/Vl6WU_e1FvI/AAAAAAAAOiM/BvEhzLiDZbQ/s1600/PC020190.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-m1yXadWMLSo/Vl6WU_e1FvI/AAAAAAAAOiM/BvEhzLiDZbQ/s640/PC020190.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8J5STIbHjMM/Vl6WVz_JJ5I/AAAAAAAAOi8/lxMSTNQscrQ/s1600/PC020192.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8J5STIbHjMM/Vl6WVz_JJ5I/AAAAAAAAOi8/lxMSTNQscrQ/s640/PC020192.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
Use the same process to make the Minnie Mouse card, using pink instead of red. Add extra dots to the bottom half and a little bow made from the pink tape.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-fu8gKWZf7dE/Vl6WWcUPp4I/AAAAAAAAOig/CMAqgZKldI0/s1600/PC020210.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-fu8gKWZf7dE/Vl6WWcUPp4I/AAAAAAAAOig/CMAqgZKldI0/s640/PC020210.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-NxB0FTuW_n8/Vl6WXY56sXI/AAAAAAAAOjE/B28PXhF8Cko/s1600/PC020196.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-NxB0FTuW_n8/Vl6WXY56sXI/AAAAAAAAOjE/B28PXhF8Cko/s640/PC020196.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Jc2fgDeo5wg/Vl6WYGJ3MYI/AAAAAAAAOio/8v-o8Rm_qD0/s1600/PC020201.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Jc2fgDeo5wg/Vl6WYGJ3MYI/AAAAAAAAOio/8v-o8Rm_qD0/s640/PC020201.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-uFYfMzCxCpk/Vl6WY5gui8I/AAAAAAAAOi0/mPsNjJwryUI/s1600/PC020202.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-uFYfMzCxCpk/Vl6WY5gui8I/AAAAAAAAOi0/mPsNjJwryUI/s640/PC020202.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
You can use this same method to make all sorts of great designs. Older kids will enjoy making their own designs and trying out different washi tape combinations and patterns.<br />
<br />
<b><a href="http://goo.gl/LiirWZ" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Disney Junior The Channel</a></b> is where magical storytelling comes to life and is available on Foxtel, channel 709 and Fetch (or SKY and channel 105 in New Zealand). We are fans of many of the characters and I love that the stories cover various <b>learning areas</b> from <b>early language</b> and <b>maths</b> skills to <b>healthy living</b> and <b>social and emotional development. </b>You can use this inspiration for recreating your own Magical Christmas Moment with your little ones and share these with friends and family. Disney Junior Australia and New Zealand would love to see your ideas so be sure to tag in <i>@DisneyJuniorAUNZ</i> and <i>#DJMagical Moments</i>.<br />
<br />
We really enjoyed creating these fun cards together and I can see us using the same method for many different designs in the future.<br />
<br />
<b>What magical Christmas Moments have you created with your children?</b><br />
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<div style="text-align: left;">
Happy playing,</div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<div style="text-align: left;">
<b><span style="font-size: large;">Debs :)</span></b></div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></b>
<br />
<div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<a href="http://goo.gl/oFpAiZ" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4xqnfZduuT8/Vmkeqxt4OWI/AAAAAAAAOow/TehfHnHSIDE/s640/Footer%2BImage%2B-%2BLWPAH.png" width="640" /></a></div>
</div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="color: #0b5394;">Look where else we are. Are you following along? :)</span></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/learnwithplayathome" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vkHOFWBJK4o/UYyIgOBU9wI/AAAAAAAAGxo/RvuMjfHQ8L0/s1600/facebook.png" width="45" /></a><a href="http://pinterest.com/debstar4/" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Q4D1znEaQ1o/UYyIhLF1kZI/AAAAAAAAGyA/_ZtdQ6RKoXo/s1600/pinterest.png" width="45" /></a><a href="https://twitter.com/Learn_with_Play" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Bmqmpb9Xyjs/UYyIhMG5E3I/AAAAAAAAGyE/YAcBYCgfHSQ/s1600/twitter.png" width="45" /></a><a href="https://plus.google.com/u/0/113416249899539659575" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-44-9pseqqU4/UYyIgD7LORI/AAAAAAAAGxs/9dX88h__ySA/s1600/google%252B.png" width="45" /></a><a href="http://instagram.com/learnwithplayathome" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2fJM8P2Waec/UYyIgHDR4OI/AAAAAAAAGxw/p3Qh6jbkY3E/s1600/instagram.png" width="45" /></a><a href="mailto:learnwithplayathome@gmail.com" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jxw1Ykf18tU/UYyIgoSn7YI/AAAAAAAAGx0/h0Bdknuiv20/s1600/mail.png" width="45" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="color: #444444;">New Here? Subscribe to get all activities sent directly to you</span></b></div>
<form action="http://feedburner.google.com/fb/a/mailverify" method="post" onsubmit="window.open('http://feedburner.google.com/fb/a/mailverify?uri=LearnWithPlayHome', 'popupwindow', 'scrollbars=yes,width=550,height=520');return true" style="border: 1px solid #ccc; padding: 3px; text-align: center;" target="popupwindow">
Enter your email address:<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<input name="email" style="width: 140px;" type="text" /><br /></div>
<input name="uri" type="hidden" value="LearnWithPlayHome" /><input name="loc" type="hidden" value="en_US" /><input type="submit" value="Subscribe" /><br />
Delivered by <a href="http://feedburner.google.com/" target="_blank">FeedBurner</a></form>
Learn with Play at Homehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08323717740126935795noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6796821888191012398.post-19580013347997930332015-11-23T15:22:00.000+11:002015-11-23T15:22:33.663+11:00Christmas Snowflake Decoration Creation Station<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-sx-ze9D4hFY/VklQG9dTIoI/AAAAAAAAOWI/5xRkUcFoYvA/s1600/christmas%2Bdoiley%2Bdecoration%2Bstation.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-sx-ze9D4hFY/VklQG9dTIoI/AAAAAAAAOWI/5xRkUcFoYvA/s640/christmas%2Bdoiley%2Bdecoration%2Bstation.jpg" width="448" /></a></div>
<br />
Last Christmas (yes, that's how far behind I am), I set up a little <b>Christmas Snowflake Doiley Decoration Creation Station </b>for my kids (try and say that quickly 5 times). The previous year, our favourite Christmas activity was this <a href="http://www.learnwithplayathome.com/2013/11/christmas-decoration-creation-station.html" target="_blank">Christmas Decoration Creation Station</a> where the kids were enticed to decorate baubles for the tree with a range of fun arty materials. They especially loved the <b>open-ended</b> nature of it and how the end results were not predetermined, it was completely up to them. That was the same premise for this activity. I demonstrated how you could fold and cut the doilys to make snowflakes if they wanted, but other than that, the end results were completely up to them.<br />
<br />
As it is summer here in Australia over Christmas time, our Christmases are as far from a "white Christmas" as you can get. We certainly don't have any snow, but thanks to television shows, movies and books from other countries, my children are well aware that in many parts of the world, they do! There is something a little magical to us about a Christmas winter wonderland, so we thought we'd make our front room seem a little less summery, with a myriad of beautiful snowflakes all over the window. (<i>Unfortunately it didn't cool us down at all... but it did look pretty) ;)</i><br />
<a name='more'></a><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/--yt93EA8DPc/VklQIN0CBhI/AAAAAAAAOWQ/Cn7VF66ZwgI/s1600/IMG_3733.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/--yt93EA8DPc/VklQIN0CBhI/AAAAAAAAOWQ/Cn7VF66ZwgI/s640/IMG_3733.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<b>Materials:</b><br />
<ul>
<li>Doileys (range of sizes)</li>
<li>Scissors</li>
<li>Decorative supplies, ie. Paint, sequins, glitter, stamps, stickers, etc.</li>
<li>Glue/tape</li>
</ul>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2EKAT-nlP5E/VklQJItxSlI/AAAAAAAAOXA/ttX5oB7u1jc/s1600/IMG_3736.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2EKAT-nlP5E/VklQJItxSlI/AAAAAAAAOXA/ttX5oB7u1jc/s640/IMG_3736.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-VYQanxb7Gj4/VklQKKySh6I/AAAAAAAAOXE/y3VxJSMUHqE/s1600/IMG_3737.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-VYQanxb7Gj4/VklQKKySh6I/AAAAAAAAOXE/y3VxJSMUHqE/s640/IMG_3737.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-IwTnT_mSU14/VklQLWz80lI/AAAAAAAAOWg/5iZ2U8HnRCc/s1600/IMG_3732.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-IwTnT_mSU14/VklQLWz80lI/AAAAAAAAOWg/5iZ2U8HnRCc/s640/IMG_3732.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
A table set up as an <b>Invitation to Create. </b>This is the creation station! In the top left corner is the "snowflake" that we made together, where we could talk about how they needed to be folded and how/where to cut them, etc.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-hGdB9yLsm-o/VklQMnFjuWI/AAAAAAAAOXI/lxrGppLvfcs/s1600/IMG_3745.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-hGdB9yLsm-o/VklQMnFjuWI/AAAAAAAAOXI/lxrGppLvfcs/s640/IMG_3745.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
Thanks to repeated exposure of this sort of <b>creative, open-ended activity</b>, my children don't hesitate at all to jump in to creating, already with multiple ideas buzzing of what they want to create (or at least which materials they want to use). If your child is less familiar with these sorts of materials, it could be helpful to stay and create with them so that you can encourage use of different materials, talk with them about the different ideas they are formulating for their creations or explain how best to use the materials. (<i>Or, just let them go for it! They will learn for themselves... the mess you have to clean at the end might be a little different though.</i>)<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rmN0IuS7K0Y/VklQN-HZE4I/AAAAAAAAOXM/KarP41FdplA/s1600/IMG_3730.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rmN0IuS7K0Y/VklQN-HZE4I/AAAAAAAAOXM/KarP41FdplA/s640/IMG_3730.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
Doileys already have lovely patterns around the edges so you only need cut the centre to continue the pattern or make new patterns;<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7OWHLwT2YRU/VklQQcyQERI/AAAAAAAAObY/0cpdYrenlHI/s1600/making%2Bsnowflake%2Bdoiley%2Bdecorations.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7OWHLwT2YRU/VklQQcyQERI/AAAAAAAAObY/0cpdYrenlHI/s1600/making%2Bsnowflake%2Bdoiley%2Bdecorations.png" /></a></div>
Plenty of <b>creativity, fine motor skills, cutting skills</b>, <b>language</b> and <b>imagination</b> took place over the hour or so that my kids participated in this activity.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vxseXzVy_58/VklQSDIvDsI/AAAAAAAAOXg/SoChDI4UYh0/s1600/IMG_3842.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vxseXzVy_58/VklQSDIvDsI/AAAAAAAAOXg/SoChDI4UYh0/s640/IMG_3842.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
When dry, we stuck them on the window with some folded sticky-tape. They didn't photograph amazingly thanks to all the light behind them, but they certainly gave the room a real festive feel and looked lovely.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-b6hR_UpcVUc/VklQU2w1DqI/AAAAAAAAObc/FINRT4c9fKY/s1600/Christmas%2BDoiley%2BSnowflake%2BDecorations.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-b6hR_UpcVUc/VklQU2w1DqI/AAAAAAAAObc/FINRT4c9fKY/s1600/Christmas%2BDoiley%2BSnowflake%2BDecorations.png" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WNf3CD5pu2w/VklQWBTZZBI/AAAAAAAAOW8/t2sJ8QTg9tM/s1600/IMG_3808.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WNf3CD5pu2w/VklQWBTZZBI/AAAAAAAAOW8/t2sJ8QTg9tM/s640/IMG_3808.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<h3>
<b>Handy Tips</b></h3>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
- <b>Simplify </b>this activity for younger children by providing them with things like foam stickers that are easy for them to peel and stick and pre-cut pieces of patterned tape. You could leave out some of the more fiddly items like sequins (although they can be fabulous for practicing fine motor skills). You may wish to have younger children decorate their doileys and then you can assist them in folding and cutting the shapes from the middle.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
- <b>Extend</b> this activity by:</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<ul>
<li style="text-align: left;">Encouraging children to spell out Christmas words and names using letter stickers, stamps and paint.</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">Encouraging your child to think about patterns, colours and spacing</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">Inviting children to arrange all the finished snowflakes in a large design on the window</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">Challenging students to try and create two identical snowflakes and discussing what they are like in real life.</li>
</ul>
<ul></ul>
<div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br />
- <b>Mix it up</b> by just using plain paper and having children trace and cut a circular shape first.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
</div>
<div>
<div style="text-align: start;">
- Use <b>descriptive language </b>that goes with this experience to help develop your child's vocabulary. Eg "pattern, design, cut, fold, stick, decorate" etc.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
- <b>Having a damp cloth </b>on the side of the table is handy for attending to spills and cleaning fingers along the way.</div>
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: start;">
<div style="text-align: left;">
- <b> </b>Here are a few more <b>Christmas Activities</b> we've shared:</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<ul>
<li><a href="http://www.learnwithplayathome.com/2013/11/25-christmas-decorations-kids-can-make.html" target="_blank">26 Christmas Decorations kids can make</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.learnwithplayathome.com/2012/11/super-simple-christmas-cards.html" target="_blank">Super Simple Christmas Cards</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.learnwithplayathome.com/2012/11/simple-diy-christmas-lanterns-and-3m.html" target="_blank">Simple DIY Christmas Lanterns</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.learnwithplayathome.com/2012/12/five-fabulous-christmas-tree-activities.html" target="_blank">5 Christmas Tree Activities</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.learnwithplayathome.com/2012/12/shivery-snow-for-outdoor-sensory-play.html" target="_blank">How to make your own Shivery Snow</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.learnwithplayathome.com/2012/12/10-fun-christmas-food-ideas.html" target="_blank">10 Fun Christmas Food Ideas</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.learnwithplayathome.com/2012/12/tinsel-treats-table-tree-christmas.html" target="_blank">Make a simple Tinsel Table Tree</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.learnwithplayathome.com/2013/12/kid-made-simple-candy-cane-decorations.html" target="_blank">Toddler made Candy Cane decorations</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.learnwithplayathome.com/2012/12/giving-for-children-how-to-be-christmas.html" target="_blank">Giving for Children. How to be a Christmas Angel</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.learnwithplayathome.com/2012/12/ribbon-tree-christmas-card-for-kids.html" target="_blank">Ribbon Tree Christmas Card</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.learnwithplayathome.com/2013/11/simple-bubblewrap-christmas-cards-made.html" target="_blank">DIY Bubblewrap Christmas Cards</a></li>
</ul>
<br />
- Want to make some fun <b>Christmas food</b>? Try these <a href="http://www.learnwithplayathome.com/2015/11/no-bake-reindeer-cookies-fun-christmas.html" target="_blank">no-bake Reindeer Cookies</a>!<br />
<ul></ul>
<br />
If you want to see more about what our summer Christmas looks like, you can take a peek at our post, <a href="http://www.learnwithplayathome.com/2012/11/christmas-in-australia.html" target="_blank">Christmas in Australia.</a><br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Do you have a summer or a winter Christmas?</b></div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<div style="text-align: left;">
Happy playing,</div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<div style="text-align: left;">
<b><span style="font-size: large;">Debs :)</span></b></div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></b>
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="color: #0b5394;">Look where else we are. Are you following along? :)</span></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/learnwithplayathome" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vkHOFWBJK4o/UYyIgOBU9wI/AAAAAAAAGxo/RvuMjfHQ8L0/s1600/facebook.png" width="45" /></a><a href="http://pinterest.com/debstar4/" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Q4D1znEaQ1o/UYyIhLF1kZI/AAAAAAAAGyA/_ZtdQ6RKoXo/s1600/pinterest.png" width="45" /></a><a href="https://twitter.com/Learn_with_Play" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Bmqmpb9Xyjs/UYyIhMG5E3I/AAAAAAAAGyE/YAcBYCgfHSQ/s1600/twitter.png" width="45" /></a><a href="https://plus.google.com/u/0/113416249899539659575" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-44-9pseqqU4/UYyIgD7LORI/AAAAAAAAGxs/9dX88h__ySA/s1600/google%252B.png" width="45" /></a><a href="http://instagram.com/learnwithplayathome" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2fJM8P2Waec/UYyIgHDR4OI/AAAAAAAAGxw/p3Qh6jbkY3E/s1600/instagram.png" width="45" /></a><a href="mailto:learnwithplayathome@gmail.com" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jxw1Ykf18tU/UYyIgoSn7YI/AAAAAAAAGx0/h0Bdknuiv20/s1600/mail.png" width="45" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="color: #444444;">New Here? Subscribe to get all activities sent directly to you</span></b></div>
<form action="http://feedburner.google.com/fb/a/mailverify" method="post" onsubmit="window.open('http://feedburner.google.com/fb/a/mailverify?uri=LearnWithPlayHome', 'popupwindow', 'scrollbars=yes,width=550,height=520');return true" style="border: 1px solid #ccc; padding: 3px; text-align: center;" target="popupwindow">
Enter your email address:<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<input name="email" style="width: 140px;" type="text" /><br /></div>
<input name="uri" type="hidden" value="LearnWithPlayHome" /><input name="loc" type="hidden" value="en_US" /><input type="submit" value="Subscribe" /><br />
Delivered by <a href="http://feedburner.google.com/" target="_blank">FeedBurner</a></form>
Learn with Play at Homehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08323717740126935795noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6796821888191012398.post-88638971532390684632015-11-18T16:22:00.002+11:002020-08-02T11:58:04.701+10:00No Bake Reindeer Cookies. Fun Christmas Food Idea<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wF89XJG6tcY/Vkv5CjXdayI/AAAAAAAAOZM/GU-nrdIJPNg/s1600/Christmas%2BCooking%2BReindeer%2BCookies%2Bno%2Bbake.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wF89XJG6tcY/Vkv5CjXdayI/AAAAAAAAOZM/GU-nrdIJPNg/s640/Christmas%2BCooking%2BReindeer%2BCookies%2Bno%2Bbake.jpg" width="480" /></span></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Each Christmas we enjoy making a little <b>Christmas themed gift</b> for the children in my kids' classes. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Our favourite idea was our <a href="http://www.learnwithplayathome.com/2013/12/diy-chistmas-tree-playdough-gift-bags.html" target="_blank">playdough Christmas tree bags</a>. They make a great sugar-free alternative to balance out all the treats that usually get given out around Christmas time. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">This year however, we needed a different idea so thought that we'd have a go at making some reasonably quick and easy little <b>Rudolf the Red Nosed Reindeer cookies</b>.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Using bought biscuits definitely cuts out a lot of time and the trickiest bit is melting the chocolate, which makes it a good activity to get the kids involved with too. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">If they're the ones giving the gifts, they might as well help make them!</span><br />
<a name='more'></a><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ddmIV_IpGWY/Vkv5EMeZfPI/AAAAAAAAOZQ/c3T233IPerY/s1600/PB170692.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ddmIV_IpGWY/Vkv5EMeZfPI/AAAAAAAAOZQ/c3T233IPerY/s640/PB170692.JPG" width="640" /></span></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">You'll need one biscuit per child. For a class of say, 20 children, I recommend buying 2 packs in case of broken biscuits. Other than the biscuits, we found one packet of each of the above ingredients to be enough to make a class-sized batch of reindeers. See the bottom of the post for ingredient details.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-O8YSzwktVy4/Vkv5EzB7ZSI/AAAAAAAAOZU/O31yYEHC8NE/s1600/PB170698.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-O8YSzwktVy4/Vkv5EzB7ZSI/AAAAAAAAOZU/O31yYEHC8NE/s640/PB170698.JPG" width="640" /></span></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Melt your chocolate and spread onto your biscuit. To speed up the process, parents can do this part and just have the kids decorate the faces, or, if you have plenty of time, let the kids do the spreading.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-kab693wMkMc/Vkv5FmVIRyI/AAAAAAAAOZY/WApt95h8pD4/s1600/PB170700.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-kab693wMkMc/Vkv5FmVIRyI/AAAAAAAAOZY/WApt95h8pD4/s640/PB170700.JPG" width="640" /></span></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Lay your chocolate covered biscuit on a flat surface. While the chocolate is still wet, press on the antlers, white eyes and nose.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-76GfiFddhTE/Vkv5GcQEVLI/AAAAAAAAOZc/ZonrXG7LZRE/s1600/PB170702.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-76GfiFddhTE/Vkv5GcQEVLI/AAAAAAAAOZc/ZonrXG7LZRE/s640/PB170702.JPG" width="640" /></span></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">To stick the choc-chip in the middle of the white chocolate button, put a small dot of melted chocolate on the bottom of the choc-chip and then carefully place on. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">(This bit needs to be done carefully to avoid brown streaks across the whites of the eyes. Younger children might need a bit of assistance with this part)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xT9EFBNTQs4/Vkv5HpPJcbI/AAAAAAAAOZg/_EzEIrm4YwU/s1600/PB170707.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xT9EFBNTQs4/Vkv5HpPJcbI/AAAAAAAAOZg/_EzEIrm4YwU/s640/PB170707.JPG" width="640" /></span></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Which is the favourite bit to put on? The nose of course!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kR3DyiGQeCI/Vkv5Ie0dogI/AAAAAAAAOZk/eE5pBz1Owro/s1600/PB170719.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kR3DyiGQeCI/Vkv5Ie0dogI/AAAAAAAAOZk/eE5pBz1Owro/s640/PB170719.JPG" width="640" /></span></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Sit and allow to dry. The chocolate will harden and stick it all together. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">You can store them in an airtight container. (Just remember that if they get too warm, the chocolate is likely to get softer and some bits might fall off!)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/--Wfl_oDAPqA/Vkv5JhfMUjI/AAAAAAAAOag/dxJmOmWyBfw/s1600/Reindeer%2BCookies.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/--Wfl_oDAPqA/Vkv5JhfMUjI/AAAAAAAAOag/dxJmOmWyBfw/s1600/Reindeer%2BCookies.jpg" /></span></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-zceigTjDeVI/Vkv5LMabC1I/AAAAAAAAOZs/F_JDU13zVBo/s1600/PB170725.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-zceigTjDeVI/Vkv5LMabC1I/AAAAAAAAOZs/F_JDU13zVBo/s640/PB170725.JPG" width="640" /></span></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OEPUz0qdOVo/Vkv5Md_bXuI/AAAAAAAAOZ0/_3y75XQfong/s1600/PB170717.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OEPUz0qdOVo/Vkv5Md_bXuI/AAAAAAAAOZ0/_3y75XQfong/s640/PB170717.JPG" width="640" /></span></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b></b><br /></span>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><b><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">No Bake Reindeer Cookie Recipe</span></b></b></div>
<b><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">
</span></b>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: start;">
<b><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: start;">
<b><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Ingredients:</span></b></div>
<ul style="text-align: start;">
<li style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Oval shaped biscuits. (We used Milk Arrowroot biscuits)</span></li>
<li style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Milk chocolate (for melting)</span></li>
<li style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">White chocolate buttons</span></li>
<li style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Milk choc-chips</span></li>
<li style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Jaffas (or other red lolly for the nose)</span></li>
<li style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Pretzels</span></li>
</ul>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: start;">
<b><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: start;">
<b><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Method:</span></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: start;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: start;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Step 1:</b> Melt your milk chocolate and then spread it on your first biscuit with a butter knife. (We melt ours in a microwave safe dish, uncovered in the microwave, on half power, 30 secs at a time, stirring between.)</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Step 2:</b> While the chocolate is still wet on your biscuit, press on two white chocolate buttons for eyes, a jaffa for the nose and two pretzels for the antlers. </span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Step 3:</b> Put a dot of melted chocolate on the back of two choc-chips and press onto the white chocolate for the middle of the eyes. Set aside on a flat surface to dry and repeat steps to make the rest of your reindeer.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Store in a cool place in an air-tight container for up to a week.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">For giving as gifts, we will put individual cookies into small clear cellophane bags and seal them up. We'll then tape them to the envelopes of Christmas cards to hand out.</span></i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Enjoy!</span></i></div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<b><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">More Christmas Themed food ideas:</span></b><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<ul>
<li><a href="http://www.learnwithplayathome.com/2012/12/10-fun-christmas-food-ideas.html" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">10 Fun Christmas Food Ideas</span></a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.learnwithplayathome.com/2015/10/santa-snacks-fun-christmas-food-ideas.html" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Santa Snacks. Santa themed food ideas</span></a></li>
</ul>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: start;">
<b><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Here are some more yummy recipes of ours for Cooking with Kids:</span></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: start;">
</div>
<ul style="text-align: start;">
<li style="text-align: left;"><a href="http://www.learnwithplayathome.com/2014/10/cheese-and-veg-muffins-cooking-with-kids.html" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Cheese and Veg Muffins</span></a></li>
<li style="text-align: left;"><a href="http://www.learnwithplayathome.com/2015/05/healthy-choc-rice-bubble-treats-cooking.html" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">"Healthy" Choc Rice Bubble Treats</span></a></li>
<li style="text-align: left;"><a href="http://www.learnwithplayathome.com/2014/06/ham-cheese-and-spinach-muffins-cooking.html" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Ham, Cheese and Spinach Muffins</span></a></li>
<li style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.learnwithplayathome.com/2015/02/simple-banana-berry-muffins-cooking.html" target="_blank">Banana Berry Muffins</a> (low sugar)</span></li>
<li style="text-align: left;"><a href="http://www.learnwithplayathome.com/2015/03/stuff-and-bake-pizza-rolls-cooking-with.html" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Stuff and Bake Pizza Rolls</span></a></li>
<li style="text-align: left;"><a href="http://www.learnwithplayathome.com/2012/05/cooking-with-kids-zucchini-slice.html" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Zucchini Slice</span></a></li>
<li style="text-align: left;"><a href="http://www.learnwithplayathome.com/2013/07/cooking-with-kids-sweet-chilli-ginger.html" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Chicken and Vegetable Rice Paper Rolls</span></a></li>
<li style="text-align: left;"><a href="http://www.learnwithplayathome.com/2013/10/sushi-penguin-fun-food-for-kids.html" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Sushi Penguins</span></a></li>
<li style="text-align: left;"><a href="http://www.learnwithplayathome.com/2012/02/lets-bake-lemonade-scones.html" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Lemonade Scones</span></a></li>
</ul>
</div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Happy cooking,</span></div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<div style="text-align: left;">
<b><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Debs :)</span></b></div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></b>
</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Look where else we are. Are you following along? :)</span></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/learnwithplayathome" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vkHOFWBJK4o/UYyIgOBU9wI/AAAAAAAAGxo/RvuMjfHQ8L0/s1600/facebook.png" width="45" /></a><a href="http://pinterest.com/debstar4/" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Q4D1znEaQ1o/UYyIhLF1kZI/AAAAAAAAGyA/_ZtdQ6RKoXo/s1600/pinterest.png" width="45" /></a><a href="https://twitter.com/Learn_with_Play" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Bmqmpb9Xyjs/UYyIhMG5E3I/AAAAAAAAGyE/YAcBYCgfHSQ/s1600/twitter.png" width="45" /></a><a href="https://plus.google.com/u/0/113416249899539659575" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-44-9pseqqU4/UYyIgD7LORI/AAAAAAAAGxs/9dX88h__ySA/s1600/google%252B.png" width="45" /></a><a href="http://instagram.com/learnwithplayathome" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2fJM8P2Waec/UYyIgHDR4OI/AAAAAAAAGxw/p3Qh6jbkY3E/s1600/instagram.png" width="45" /></a><a href="mailto:learnwithplayathome@gmail.com" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jxw1Ykf18tU/UYyIgoSn7YI/AAAAAAAAGx0/h0Bdknuiv20/s1600/mail.png" width="45" /></a></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<form action="http://feedburner.google.com/fb/a/mailverify" method="post" onsubmit="window.open('http://feedburner.google.com/fb/a/mailverify?uri=LearnWithPlayHome', 'popupwindow', 'scrollbars=yes,width=550,height=520');return true" style="border: 1px solid #ccc; padding: 3px; text-align: center;" target="popupwindow">
</form>
Learn with Play at Homehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08323717740126935795noreply@blogger.com