Fun Friday

For a super cheap and fun toy, grab a container and fill it with some popcorn kernals, dried beans, dried peas, etc. Add some plastic spoons and small measuring cups and voila--instant fun. Another great option is to make rainbow rice (1 C rice, 1/2 t food coloring, 1 t rubbing alcohol). Make a couple of different colors of rice and then combine. These are both great sensory activities and are very calming to children (and adults too!). Rainbow rice was an ongoing sensory activity in my classroom and it was always a hit. It goes without saying that you should use your best judgment as to whether your child is at an age where they can use the materials appropriately. The other nice thing about this, is that it keeps for a loooong time. BTW, it is also a great developmental way for children to begin learning about volume, measurement, capacity, etc. I guarantee you'll have fun playing right along with them. Oh yeah, unfortunately the clean-up isn't quite so great. Those darn kernals tend to keep reappearing, even after you've given everything a good sweep. Oh well, dim the lights and light the candles instead :0) Happy Friday everyone!