Contributing Writers

Leaf Scrapbook

June 11, 2010

Today’s post is from contributing writer Katy Bird, who reminds us just how simple it can be to explore science and the natural world around us. Get some fresh air, and explore with your child, even if your adventure goes no further than your own backyard.

______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

We were recently studying plants and so we decided to make a leaf scrapbook. This activity was a huge hit and I think it could be adapted for children of almost any ability level.

First you take a walk–we just went around the yard, but you could go further if you need/want to.

Collect leaves–try to collect leaves from plants that you recognize. This was pretty easy for us since my husband is a gardening nut, but you can always do a little online research if you needed.

Create a Leaf Scrapbook. Paste a leaf on each page of your scrapbook and then label each with its name.

Allow your child to do as much of the creating as they are capable. Take time to go over your scrapbook with your child–talk about color, size, and texture.

I ended up laminating Charlie’s cards because he LOVES to put things in his mouth and I was afraid he might eat one of the leaves! This could work just as well with note cards or heavy paper. I especially like this activity because it gets kids started on the basics of science in a way that is fun and interactive.

You could do this activity with flowers as well.

________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Katy is a mom of one who loves art, mystery novels, and anything involving peanut butter–she blogs about raising her little miracle at Bird on the Street.

Posted in Age 2-3 years, Age 3-5 years, Age 5 and older, Age Under 2 years, Contributing Writers, Katy, Leaves, Nature Activities, Outside activities, Science Experiments |

3 Comments »

Sunday Spotlight: Let me introduce…

April 25, 2010

Our Contributing Writers

Carrie Anne Badov , Katy Bird and Kim Young

I am blessed to have 3 wonderful writers who are willing to share their work, and precious time with us here at No Time For Flash Cards. They are all talented writers and moms who will add perspective, creativity and some fresh blood to No Time For Flash Cards. Carrie Anne has been writing book reviews for us for months, and I love reading her reviews. Katy will be adding a unique perspective to activities as a fellow teacher and mom to a son with special needs, and Kim will bring her down to earth and generous spirit to her posts because it’s impossible to miss just how nice she is. I can’t possibly explain how thrilled I am to have these three writers on our team. Check out their bios and smiling faces here, and click on the buttons below to check out their blogs to see why I think they all rock.

Posted in Contributing Writers, Sunday Spotlight |

3 Comments »