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Shape Finders
April 29, 2026 Leave a Comment
Teaching shapes to little ones isn’t just adorable, it’s the building block of early learning! From spotting squares in storybooks to hopping on hexagons during playtime, shapes spark curiosity, boost language, and turn everyday moments into brain-boosting adventures. Come explore the corners, curves, and creativity of shape play by making Shape Finders for toddlers and preschoolers in your care.
Be sure to read children’s books about shapes with the children in your care such as: “Mouse Shapes” by Ellen Stoll Walsh, “My Very First Book of Shapes” by Eric Carle, “Round is a Tortilla: A Book of Shapes” by Roseanne Greenfield, “All Shapes Matter” by Sreekanth Kumar and Chakra Sreekanth.
You Will Need:
Card Stock Paper
Self-Adhesive Laminating Sheets
Jumbo Craft Sticks
Hot Glue Gun and Hot Glue Sticks
Clear Packing Tape
What to Do:
1. Cut out shape templates:
Print or draw desired shapes onto cardstock. Common shapes include circles, squares, triangles, rectangles, and ovals.
2. Cut out the center:
Carefully cut out the inside of each shape to create a “window” or viewing area.
3. Reinforce the shape finders:
Laminating the shape finders for durability, or use clear tape to reinforce them, especially if they will be handled frequently.
4. Attach craft sticks:
Use hot glue to attach the craft sticks to each shape. Reinforce with a small piece of clear packing tape.
5. Go on a shape hunt:
Take the shape finders and explore your surroundings, looking through the cut-out shapes to find matching objects in your environment.
Idea from Teachers Pay Teachers
Photos by Stephanie Felzenberg
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Peanut Butter Oatmeal Bowl
April 24, 2026 Leave a Comment
This Peanut Butter Oatmeal Bowl is always a kid favorite because it’s naturally sweet, colorful, and fun for them to build. The fresh bananas, juicy berries, and tiny chia seeds create a mix of textures kids love, while the warm drizzle of peanut butter makes it feel like a cozy treat. It’s a healthy, high […]
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April 19, 2026 Leave a Comment
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[Continue reading...]Earth Day Pancakes
April 17, 2026 Leave a Comment
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[Continue reading...]Milk Carton Earth Day Bird Feeder
April 15, 2026 Leave a Comment
Turn a simple recycled milk carton into a charming bird feeder and a hands-on Earth Day lesson. The kids you care for will love creating something that helps the planet by making something from their recycling bin and invites birds to their backyard. You Will Need: Empty Milk Carton (clean and dry)Ruler or Straight EdgePencilScissorsSharpie […]
[Continue reading...]Double Stuffed Chicken Sweet Potatoes
April 10, 2026 Leave a Comment
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[Continue reading...]Building a Rainbow Garden and “Planting a Rainbow” by Lois Ehlert
April 8, 2026 Leave a Comment
After reading “Planting a Rainbow” by Lois Ehlert, bring the rainbow to life using colored craft sticks and matching paper flowers. Invite children to sort their flowers by color, then attach each one to the coordinating stick. It’s a hands-on way to reinforce color recognition and fine motor skills. The best part? No green thumb […]
[Continue reading...]Sweet Easter Bread
April 4, 2026 Leave a Comment
There’s something extra magical about baking bread when it doubles as a craft and braided Easter bread with colorful eggs tucked inside is just that. Kids will love twisting the dough, picking bright eggs, and watching their creation transform into a beautiful (and delicious) holiday centerpiece. It’s part baking, part art project, and all fun. You […]
[Continue reading...]Easter Egg Rice Cereal Treats
April 3, 2026 Leave a Comment
Looking for an Easter activity that’s just as fun to make as it is to eat? Inspired by Ree Drummond’s playful twist on a classic treat, these crispy rice cereal Easter eggs turn a simple marshmallow mix into a colorful treat for the kids to enjoy. For vibrant colors use gel food coloring. Liquid food […]
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