dana lee designs

Snow Day Hot Chocolate Shop

 

School is canceled and it's dangerously cold outside.  Everyone has cabin fever, and you've run out of ideas to keep the kids busy.  What to do?  After seeing the idea here and and in the Dec./Jan. issue of this book, we decided to make our own Hot Chocolate Shop!  So many areas of learning going on.  Incorporate art by making a sign.  Reading and writing practice came into play here, too.  Math was used by making some play money and counting change.  There was also dramatic play by our cashier, hot chocolate maker, and of course, customers.  They had so much fun!  This would also be a great center for the preschoolers, or theme of the week.

In the sidebar are some books I found that would be great to read together while sipping your hot chocolate.

An Artful Life Interview

I'm a big fan of Jean Van't Hul's blog The Artful Parent where she shares creative kid's projects and ways to be artful with your family.  I'm so flattered to have been interviewed by her recently.  You can read the interview today, if you're interested, and also get the chance to win this little girl's apron and headband set.  Thank you, Jean!  Have a great week everyone!

Meet Zoey

With a drawn face, some googly eyes, a few accessories and a little glue, little "Zoey" has come to life.  Time to snuggle up with a bedtime story.

It's the Simple Things

Sweet and simple things to do with your kids to celebrate Valentine's Day.....

• Cut out paper hearts and make a collage on paper or tape them on your windows.
• Use a heart-shaped cookie cutter for cookies, sandwiches, cheese, pancakes, etc.
• Dress up in all red, pink or both.
• Punch holes in Valentines from friends, tie to yarn or ribbon to create a mobile, and hang on the wall or from the ceiling to enjoy them a little longer.
• Take turns at the dinner table finishing this sentence, "I love_____because_____."
• Form a big heart shape on the floor by lining up stuffed animals or dolls.  Take a picture and hang it in your child's room.
• Read a book from this list.
• Hug your children and say, "I love you," often.

Have a Happy Valentine's Day! 

I Love Spring

One of the reasons I love spring is because it's the season that everyone in our household celebrates a birthday.   Making invitations from a card kit from Close to My Heart with paper purses, stickers and ribbon..........so fun!