Naptime Sweet Baby

I was passed down this poem years ago by one of the best in the world of childcare. It's a great poem for a smooth naptime transition. With infants I would suggest doing the actions with them verses their special naptime baby. 2+ can act out the poem with their special naptime baby or stuffed animal.

We lay our sweet babies down
And tuck them snug into bed.

We brush the hair from their face
And give their forehead a sweet butterfly kiss.

Lay down your sweet little head
And dream sweet dreams until naptime ends.

Cardboard Box Fire Truck

Let's just admit it, the cardboard box is the #1 toy of all time.

Description
Turn a plain cardboard box into a Fire Truck. The cutting in this project should be done by an adult. My kids love this truck!

Materials

• Large cardboard box - additional may be needed
• 4 Paper plates
• 1 Red plastic cup (or clear painted red)
• Heavy-duty scissors or craft knife
• String or zip ties (I used cable ties)
• Screw or Drill
  
• Box Tape
• Glue
  
• Paint, glitter, crayons and/or markers
  

Step by Step

1. Draw your basic shape onto your cardboard box and begin cutting.
2. Secure all flaps with box tape.
3. Begin to paint your truck's body.
4. Using your scrap cardboard draw your accessories and 4 circles for hubcaps. For example, headlights, grill, ladder, bumpers and pump/equipment panel.
   
5. Paint paper plates black for tires.
6. Paint and decorate your accessories.
7. Using a drill or screwdriver, poke holes in cardboard to secure accessories to the truck.
8. Using string or zip ties, secure accessories to truck.
9. Glue cup to the top of truck for lights. I added a hole to place a pumpkin flashlight inside and then cover with my cup.
10. Enjoy! I fastened mine to a stroller to complete the little ones' costumes. It was then converted into a floor toy they could drive or hide inside.

We're Going On A Color Hunt

Description
This is a fun way to boost your Toddler's confidence while learning their colors.

Materials

• Classroom objects or items in your child's room

Step by Step

1. Show an item and say it's color.
2. Ask a child to find an object that is the same color. Some children may need a helping hand.
3. Applaud the child for finding an item that is the same color.
4. Playing again by asking another child or use a different color.
   

Play Dough - This is one of my favorites

Description
Easily one of my favorite play dough. Not only is it
non-toxic but it's easy to make and has a long life.

Materials

• 1 c. Flour
• 1 c. Warm Water
• 2 tsp. Cream of Tartar
• 1 tsp. Oil
• 1/4 c . Salt

Step by Step

1. Mix all ingredients, add food coloring.
2. In a medium sized pan, stir over medium heat until smooth.
3. Remove from pan and knead until blended.
4. Place in an airtight container or plastic bag when cool. This will last for a long time.

ShapeTastic

Description
Using construction paper, glue and scissors, make a collage of color and shapes. This a wonderful opportunity to work on your Toddler’s colors and shapes identification while improving your Preschooler’s their fine motor skills. This a great project for rainy days when you need a project and you need it fast. Example by Trey, age 2 1/2.

Materials
•1 Sheet of Construction Paper or Cardstock (We chose Black.)

•Several Sheets of Construction Paper (Since my kids are working on color identification, we used a wide variety.)

•Non-Toxic School Glue

•Scissors

•Pencil

Step by Step
1.Trace and cut your chosen colors into different shapes. I recommend children 3+ to trace and cut out their own shapes. (I chose Triangles and Squares).

2.Glue your shapes onto a dark sheet of construction paper. Children can create designs or a collage of shape and color.

3.Let their creativity flow.