books

FunShine Tells: Strengthening Storytime

| Chalimar Rios

Storytime has always been one of my favorites, both as a mom and as a teacher. I have always been passionate about seeing the children’s faces as they prepare and calm down to listen to the story. I wonder what children are thinking. Are they wondering what the story is about? Are they curious to learn about the characters? I have always thought that there are many hidden emotions in storytime. While one might think that more active activities might be children’s favorites, story time has its own special charm.

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Tips for a Successful Circle Time

| Teresa Narey

What is circle time?

Most early child care or preschool educators will tell you that circle time Singing and Clapping During Circle Timeis a staple in their settings. But what is circle time, and how can we do it well? Circle time comes from the tradition of Friedrich Froebel, a German educator responsible for implementing the first organized kindergarten in the mid-19th century. For Froebel,  circle time was a time for children to learn and play in group activities. Circle time then was much like it is now in many school communities—it happened at the beginning and end of each day to help children focus and to reinforce community. Circle time included music and movement, as well as fingerplays and storytelling, and in many settings, these activities still comprise the time. The word “circle” describes the position of the educator and children during the activities—they may sit or move in a circle depending on the activity.

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25 Cures for Cabin Fever

| FunShine Express

by Katie Brazerolcures-for-cabin-fever

Sometimes February can feel like the longest month of the year (even though it’s the shortest!), especially if you live in a cold weather climate! Here is a list of 25 boredom busters that will help cure some of the cabin fever you may be experiencing as you wait for spring to arrive:

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Celebrating New Year’s

| FunShine Express

How do you explain what the New Year holiday is all about to young children? Keep your explanation simple: explain that New Year’s Eve is a holiday that celebrates the end of one year and the beginning of another. Parties and celebrations are held all across the country to welcome the new year! Show the children a calendar from this year and one for next year.

Have fun ringing in the New Year with some of the following activities for young children:

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