What can you make with one oval, two circles, and eight triangles? Just ask three clever mice. In “Mouse Shapes” by Ellen Stoll Walsh. In the book the mice play with shapes while hiding from a cat. In the end, the mice build a big mice to scare the cat away. After reading the book […]
Patriotic Summer Window Clings
May 20, 2026 Leave a Comment
Looking for an inexpensive, easy Memorial Day craft kids will actually be excited about? The 4-, 7-, and 9-year-olds in my care had so much fun decorating these patriotic window clings for Memorial Day. They also are the perfect activity the 4th of July and all patriotic summer celebrations. Each kit includes three sets of […]
Dig In and Discover Shapes!
May 13, 2026 1 Comment
Last month I started teaching the children in my care about shapes by making Shape Finders. This week I continued teaching about shapes with this sensory rice shape finder activity. It’s more than just scooping and swirling — it’s a hands-on adventure in early learning! As little fingers dive into the colorful rice to search […]
Child’s Hand Bowl for Mother’s Day
May 6, 2026 Leave a Comment
This Mother’s Day craft turns a simple project into a keepsake treasure forever. The little ones in your care will love personalizing their very own handprint jewelry bowl made out of soft Model Magic, to create a gift for their mother that’s equal parts fun to make and meaningful to give. You Will Need: Craft […]
Coffee Filter Earth Day Sun Catchers
April 22, 2026 Leave a Comment
There’s something magical about turning the simplest materials into a tiny version of our big, beautiful planet. This Earth Day (or honestly, any day), try this simple coffee filter Earth sun catcher craft. All you need are coffee filters, blue and green markers, and a water squirt bottle. That’s it. No glitter explosions. No complicated […]
Earth Day Pancakes
April 17, 2026 Leave a Comment
Turn breakfast into a planet-saving celebration! These Earth Day pancakes are a fun, hands-on way for kids to mix, measure, and create, whether you’re making them from scratch from the recipe below or using your favorite mix. Inspired by a fun idea from Brightly Learning on Pinterest. I have found it’s best to cook the […]
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 […]
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 […]
Rice-Dyed Easter Eggs
April 1, 2026 Leave a Comment
Looking for a fun, low-prep Easter activity to do with the kids? This rice-dye Easter egg craft is a nanny favorite! This activity feels like a sensory game and art project in one. The shaking, rolling, and surprise patterns make it exciting every time. Also see how to make Easter eggs with shaving cream or […]
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