As Christmas approaches and everyone seems to be finishing up shopping for gifts, I wanted to share 4 of my favorite resources for teaching preschool that would make great gifts for the preschooler in your life.
- Dot Markers
Dot Markers are always a hit with any preschooler. They may be messy but they are fun. My favorite way to use dot markers are "dot worksheets". There is a wide array of worksheets available that fit almost every theme but a plain sheet of paper works just as good, too.
- Thinkfun Roll & Play Game
This is, by far, my most favorite item that I use in my classroom. This game encourages creativity, teaches kids how to follow directions and wait their turn, helps with gross motor skills, and is a fun way to learn! You roll the soft, plush dice, choose the card of the color you land on, and follow the directions on the card. You can play one-on-one with one kid or play with multiple kids at a time. This game is always a hit at circle time!
- Itty Bittys Storybooks
I was just recently introduced to Itty Bittys Storybooks. Each book takes a fun, fresh spin on a classic story and comes with an "itty bitty" plush toy to go along with the story. It is fun for preschoolers to have a tangible item they can hold while reading the story. You can find "Itty Bittys" at Hallmark stores.
- Egg Shakers + Noise Makers
There is always a song to be sung when you're a preschooler. These egg shakers keep kids engaged while singing and learning. They even teach them how to keep a beat! You can use them for counting, color recognition, or teaching directions. Here is one of my favorite rhymes to use with our egg shakers:
"This is the way we shake our eggs, shake our eggs, shake our eggs. This is the way we shake our eggs, so early in the morning!"
Another game we play that encourages following directions in a fun way is to say "Go!" Everyone shakes their eggs as fast as they can until you say "Stop!". Kids think its fun to stop so abruptly or to keep going if they choose!
What are your favorite preschool items that double as a learning tool? Share with us @thepreschoolbox!