Architects and engineers have designed many clever ways to support the walls and roof of a building. In ancient Greece, the most common supports were columns. For a column to work properly, it must withstand the force of compression created … Continue reading
Snap Circuits provides excellent interactive lessons in creating electrical circuits through a balance of guided instruction and experimentation. By following the manual’s clear illustrations and easy-to-follow directions, little engineers use hands-on activities to gaining a valuable understanding of how electrical … Continue reading
To engage both my kindergartener and my third grader in an art activity that allows for individual creativity, as well as reviewing a few geometry concepts, we spent the afternoon working on these Geometry Prints and Drawing Prompts. While a kindergartner’s geometry study primarily … Continue reading
In the Montessori educational model, teaching materials build upon each other in a specific sequence that allows for students to learn at their own pace while also addressing the need for order and independence. A clear example of this is the use of Metal Insets. For toddlers, preschoolers, and early elementary age … Continue reading
Successful travel with small children takes patience and preparation. Art and math entertainment can make that time waiting or traveling much more enjoyable for kids and parents alike. From waiting for restaurant meals to arrive to boarding an airplane for a very long … Continue reading
In February, it seems that so many creative projects for kids gravitate toward making Valentines or painting simple heart shapes. We decided to go a step further in our Valentine crafting and explore positive and negative space while creating simple heart shapes. What is Positive and … Continue reading
It’s the perfect time of year to give someone special a rose…or a rose print! Celery Rose Printing Basics This printmaking project uses simple materials to make a striking painting. It can also provide a visual (and very basic) introduction to the … Continue reading
Have you grown crystals to make a snowflake (or rather a snow crystal!) this winter? This winter-themed, kid-friendly project utilizes fine motor skills, creativity, science observation, and mathematical skills, including addition, multiplication, estimating and measuring. To get started, first you and … Continue reading
When there is a fresh blanket of snow on the ground but not nearly enough for sledding or to make a snowman… Using Snow as a Blank Canvas Supplies: Keep it simple. Mix and match supplies you already have, such as: Liquid … Continue reading
Children are always learning from the world around them. When studying mathematics and science can be connected to their everyday surroundings, children more readily engage in these activities. Right now, as we brace for this very cold winter, snow and ice … Continue reading
Design in Play 