Geography bee activities: Hands-on landforms, topography maps in social studies

 The National Geography Bee commands much interest in the U.S. Geography is a fascinating subject that has been somewhat consumed in generic social studies lessons. Many older people who were drilled in geography and history fault modern educators for replacing them with social studies. History and Geography lessons are still taught, but in broader scope units that include culture, civics, government and other related topics. And critics are correct to an extent--when subject scope is widened some specific content falls through the cracks. So here are easy, hands-on geography lessons. Make hands-on landforms and topography maps for social studies and geography bee practice.  Geography bee activities: Hands-on landforms, topography maps in social studies | Examiner.com

Free printable Harry the Dirty Dog activities, book crafts, recipes, games

March is National Reading Month. Why not celebrate the joy of children's literature with a kids' storybook craft party? I learned as a special education Montessori teacher/homeschool mom to make lesson plans hands-on. So my craft parties include an interactive story and snack. One of my husband's favorite children's literature characters is Harry the Dog, created by Gene Zion and drawn by Margaret Bloy Graham. Harry the Dirty Dog won the Caldecott Award for children's literature illustrations. Here are free printable lesson plans, book crafts and recipes for a Harry the Dirty Dog party. Most of the activities come from the book No Roses for Harry.  Free printable Harry the Dirty Dog activities, book crafts, recipes, games | Examiner.com

Preschool learning centers: Sand table, water table science activities

A sand table is a low child-sized table with tubs that can be filled with materials for children to explore. The sand table is the backbone of preschool science activities in learning centers. Early childhood special education classrooms use a sand table, or water table. The sand table provides hands-on,interactive learning, cognitive and perceptual development and tactile stimulation. You can make your own sand table for preschool learning centers. Then use these sand table science activities for early childhood lesson plans.   Preschool learning centers: Sand table, water table science activities