Using Flicker Candles With the 2's

Yesterday I blogged about using battery-operated flicker candles with my 3 year olds. Today I introduced them to my 2's. 

I presented them the same way I did with the 3's.

They immediately wanted to hold them.

...and carry them around.

We turned off the lights so we could see them better.

It was then that they decided these were candles for cupcakes.

They took them to the kitchen area and placed them in the oven.

Ah, the joys of little battery-powered flickering candles!

Flicker Candles

My mom mentioned her love for little battery-operated flicker candles and I told her how much my preschoolers would love them. Being the thoughtful Mom that she is, she picked up a pack for me. Since we  had snow last week (we only get it once or twice a year here), I decided to put together a snow scene. And I added the flicker candles. 

Then I thought about the sensory table, filled with rock salt and smooth shiny glass gems. I added some tall thin plastic bottles and some flicker candles. The children loved placing the candles in the bottles and adding the rock salt. They glowed like candles!

I think I need to pick up the big Costco-Size of these candles!

Thanksgiving Feast

The Wednesday before Thanksgiving, our 3 Year Olds perform with our Pre-K 4's class for their families. We sing 4 songs on "stage".

I am always thankful our pre-K 4's teacher can play the guitar!

There is a bald turkey that needs some thankful feathers. Each child has a feather to place on the turkey. First it is read aloud to the families.

This particular child said he is thankful for skunks and caterpillars. 

After the program, we all move into the Fellowship Hall, where tables are set with runners the children have made. Each family brings food and we have a wonderful feast.

I always leave school that day feeling particularly blessed and thankful.

Happy Thanksgiving!

Painting with Utensils

I love to collect different kinds of utensils for various activities. Thrift stores and garage sales are the perfect places to find them! We love to use these at easels and on tables, inside and out. Great fun!

Are you a pinner? Please pin this to Pinterest here:

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Tandem Painting

From the beginning of the school year, my 2 year olds have loved to paint together. Side by side. When they see someone painting at the easel, they walk up and join. The other painter never questions this. It's just sort of a nonverbal agreement they've made with each other.

And, sometimes, a third artist joins the party.

And, each time, I stand back with this huge smile on my face and in my heart. 

Two Year Olds and Paint

2's and paint. They love to get into it!

Indian Corn

My assistant came up with this neat idea for making Indian Corn. She colored popcorn different colors and had the children glue them onto paper shaped like corn, adding the husks. So cute!

Using Bug Tongs

Bug Tongs.

One of our most favorite tools in the 2's and 3's classroom! These are just a few of the ways we use them. The 2's start by using 2 hands and the 3's use one hand. And yes, we've also used them outside to collect and transfer bugs!

I cannot recall where we purchased our bug catchers, but I did find some on Amazon for anyone interested: