Show Me iPad App

Our AT specialist showed me how to really use this app today, very excited to use it this year! Take a picture of something in the classroom (educational display-word wall) and you can circle the words and say them, recording it as a video and publishing it so parents can access it.

http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/showme-interactive-whiteboard/id445066279?mt=8

Laminator Giveaway!

Ironic timing that this giveaway is out, as my personal laminator (from 2005!) "ate" a sheet that I didn't put in correctly yesterday. I unlugged it and used tweezers to get it out but it had some battle wounds!

This is a great blog as well:
http://crayonscurls.blogspot.com/

Personal Laminators

An essential classroom tool for me:

My personal laminator (Duck brand)

I purchase the 50 pack Scotch thermal laminating sheets and whatever I laminate through this machine is so much more durable than the big laminator, especially when I use construction paper or cardstock. It is perfect for centers materials!

I also decided to use it to laminate my Fundations large sound cards. They get so much daily use and I want to prevent wear and tear.

Target's Teacher Section Deals!

Over the past few years, Target's $1 section has become a treasure box for teachers. Here is a pic of what I was able to grab today:

My favorite thing is the "HI" carpet ($2.50). I will use this during Circle/Morning Meeting as the spot for the greeter to stand on when the greet their friends. It is a perfect visual cue for my kiddos!

Reusable Dry Erase packets.

Green magnetic containers (round).

Dr. Seuss hologram cups (use for centers containers in March).

Green pencil/utensil baskets. I may put a group one on each table with scissors, glue, etc. in case any kid is missing something as we start an activity.

Gotta love a good deal!

Huge Blog Giveaway!

Faithful in First is running a huge giveaway with lots of chances to earn points!
Follow her blog here:
http://faithfulinfirst.blogspot.com/2012/07/400-follower-blockbuster-giveaway-loads.html

Snack Choice

We have snack each morning with 2 choices. I have big "menu" pictures and then small "menu" laminated pictures in each black basket underneath the corresponding picture. There is a clipboard with each of the kids' pictures ( I had to gray them out) and a blank velcro spot so they can put their choice there. It really helps with the hectic nature of arrival/unpacking/bathroom.

Individual Schedules

Most of the students in my class use an individual picture schedule to help them see what is expected of them throughout the day. I make the word bigger than the Boardmaker picture and try and use pictures of the therapists.
These kits are from Pyramid Educational Products. I have had a set of 5 since 2003 and they are still in good shape, minus some velcro marks. They are so durable and the kids respond well to how visually graphic they make their schedule. If you have a Boardmaker CD (Mayer Johnson), they have a ton of schedules pre-made on Boardmaker share. Best thing is they are free!