This is a demo store. No orders will be fulfilled.

Free shipping on orders $65+ | FREE Beaker Creature Pods 2-Pack with Purchase
FREE shipping on orders of $65+
FREE shipping on orders over $79
Interested in fun, learning activities? Explore our blog! >
Order by December 14th to get your perfect gift by Christmas! >
headlights
Close Nav
Toggle Nav
Menu
Account
My Cart

Winter

Brr-illint Arctic Animal Activities

An arctic animal theme is always fun in the winter months! We are sharing our favorite polar animal-themed activities and centers for Preschool, Pre-k, and Kindergarten (and a fun freebie too).

Sort & Seek Polar Animals

It’s the coolest way to explore hide-and-peek play! Within this set are five colorful numbered igloos live five arctic animal friends ready for counting, matching, and fine motor play! Animals include polar bears, penguins, walruses, narwhals, and arctic hares. Skill Sets learned are Number Identification, Fine Motor, Color Identification, and more. 

Where is the penguin? Look at the numbers with baby polar animals ready to play the day away. Easy-open, two-piece igloos are perfect for hiding animals inside—peek-a-boo! Match the igloos’ tops and bottoms for counting fun, or pop the animals on your fingers and put on a show. The choice is yours! Gather your best buddies for a skill-building expedition! Your toddler’s mind is bursting with curiosity. At this Note to Parents: stage of their development, free play and exploration can lead to tangible educational benefits.

Set out all the pieces and let their little hands and minds go to work! They may simply place the animals in the igloos, close the lids, remove the lids, and take the animals out again. That’s great: repetitive play is fun, and they’re learning! Guide their curiosity with instructive questions: “What color is the igloo? What animal is that? Can you point to its nose? Where are its eyes?” Transition gradually into more concrete educational questions. Note the one-to-one correspondence of snowflakes atop each igloo to the numbers printed on the animals’ bellies: “How many snowflakes are there?” Count aloud slowly while pointing to each snowflake—“one, two…two snowflakes!”—and then point to the printed number: “This is the number 2. It is the same number as the snowflakes we counted.” When your child is ready for more, the following activity ideas will help you lead the way! 

  • Develop color identification by naming the colors of the igloos. Have your child repeat the color names. Then, say a color (“blue”) and have your child tap the matching igloo. Next, get the animals into the act to expand your child’s color palette! Ask them to close both eyes (“no peeking!”) as you hide an animal inside each igloo and cover it with the lids. Have the child remove one of the lids, look inside, and name the new animal. Say a short sentence integrating the colors of the igloo.

  • Introduce color sorting by placing two objects in front of each igloo: one that matches the igloo’s color and one that does not. Ask, “Which one matches the igloo? Which one does not match?” Ask the children to name both colors and place the matching item inside the igloo. Can they find more small matching-color items (e.g., toy cars or play figures) to place inside? Continue with the remaining igloos and items.

  • Identify numbers on the igloos and animals with your child. Point to and say each number in order. Be sure to count the snowflakes, noting the number of correspondence. Then, have the children put the igloos in numerical order, starting with one lone snowflake. Another fun way to show number correspondence: place an animal on your finger, hold it over each igloo, and nod the animal's head the number of times indicated (i.e., one nod for number 1; 5 nods for number 5).
  • Play "What's Missing?" to develop thinking and memory skills. Start by placing three or more animals or igloos in a row. Have your child turn away while you remove one of the items. When your child turns around, ask them which item is missing. For variation, let your child see you place an animal in one of three igloos. Cover the igloos and quickly shuffle them around! Do they remember in which igloo the animal is hiding? Were they able to follow the correct igloo with their eyes? Increase the difficulty by placing animals in all three igloos, mixing them around, and then asking your child to find one specific animal.
  • Can your child name and imitate every animal? Integrate imaginative play into a fun story or song, using the animals as finger puppets. For example: "All five polar animals are playing in the snow. Two animals, a fox and a penguin, take a nap (place them in the igloo). How many animals are still playing?"

Arctic Animal Sensory Bin

Set up a simple and engaging Arctic sensory bin for the kids during your following preschool Arctic theme. 

Supplies Needed:

To start, make snow and icebergs.

  • Put varying amounts of water in each muffin tin cavity and put it in the freezer until it is frozen.

  • Make fake snow by combining 6 cups of baking soda and 1 cup of conditioner. Mix them until they are fully incorporated. 

  • Mix a few drops of blue food coloring with a couple of cups of water if you would like.

Once everything is ready, you can assemble the bin.

  • Put the “snow” on one side of the bin.

  • Then put the craft gems on the edge of the snow.

  • Slowly pour the water into the other side of the bin. Some will seep into the snow. Use less water if you don’t want it to mix into the snow too much.

  • Remove the ice from the muffin tins and place them in the water.

  • Then add the Arctic animals to the bin.

Learning about the Arctic Habitat: Have discussions about the types of animals that live in the Arctic and what their habitat is like. Pair this activity with these books to add even more learning opportunities!

Icy Penguins!

Ready for the ultimate sensory math experience? Penguins on Ice™ is a highly engaging math activity that integrates hands-on fun with many math skills. Teach counting, sorting, problem-solving, computation skills, making 10, place value, and base ten concepts using these perky penguins and the cool blue ice bars. Keep little hands and busy brains working hard for hours of creative work and play! 

Here is what you'll need: 

  • Penguins on Ice

  • Water

  • Sensory Bin

  • Baking Soda

Add some water to the ice bars and freeze! Then, add some water to baking soda until packable and refrigerate while the ice freezes. Add penguins to the snow and have children work on patterning skills by finishing the pattern on the ice bars. Younger kids can work on counting and sorting by colors.

Learn more about the benefits of the As Seen on Reels - Icy Penguins!

Color by Number Winter Scene Printable

Use simple addition in this color-by-number printable to find what color to use in each space, then fill out this winter wonderland!

Brr-illint Arctic Animal Activities

An arctic animal theme is always fun in the winter months! We are sharing our favorite polar animal-themed activities and centers for Preschool, Pre-k, and Kindergarten (and a fun freebie too).

Sort & Seek Polar Animals

It’s the coolest way to explore hide-and-peek play! Within this set are five colorful numbered igloos live five arctic animal friends ready for counting, matching, and fine motor play! Animals include polar bears, penguins, walruses, narwhals, and arctic hares. Skill Sets learned are Number Identification, Fine Motor, Color Identification, and more. 

Where is the penguin? Look at the numbers with baby polar animals ready to play the day away. Easy-open, two-piece igloos are perfect for hiding animals inside—peek-a-boo! Match the igloos’ tops and bottoms for counting fun, or pop the animals on your fingers and put on a show. The choice is yours! Gather your best buddies for a skill-building expedition! Your toddler’s mind is bursting with curiosity. At this Note to Parents: stage of their development, free play and exploration can lead to tangible educational benefits.

Set out all the pieces and let their little hands and minds go to work! They may simply place the animals in the igloos, close the lids, remove the lids, and take the animals out again. That’s great: repetitive play is fun, and they’re learning! Guide their curiosity with instructive questions: “What color is the igloo? What animal is that? Can you point to its nose? Where are its eyes?” Transition gradually into more concrete educational questions. Note the one-to-one correspondence of snowflakes atop each igloo to the numbers printed on the animals’ bellies: “How many snowflakes are there?” Count aloud slowly while pointing to each snowflake—“one, two…two snowflakes!”—and then point to the printed number: “This is the number 2. It is the same number as the snowflakes we counted.” When your child is ready for more, the following activity ideas will help you lead the way! 

  • Develop color identification by naming the colors of the igloos. Have your child repeat the color names. Then, say a color (“blue”) and have your child tap the matching igloo. Next, get the animals into the act to expand your child’s color palette! Ask them to close both eyes (“no peeking!”) as you hide an animal inside each igloo and cover it with the lids. Have the child remove one of the lids, look inside, and name the new animal. Say a short sentence integrating the colors of the igloo.

  • Introduce color sorting by placing two objects in front of each igloo: one that matches the igloo’s color and one that does not. Ask, “Which one matches the igloo? Which one does not match?” Ask the children to name both colors and place the matching item inside the igloo. Can they find more small matching-color items (e.g., toy cars or play figures) to place inside? Continue with the remaining igloos and items.

  • Identify numbers on the igloos and animals with your child. Point to and say each number in order. Be sure to count the snowflakes, noting the number of correspondence. Then, have the children put the igloos in numerical order, starting with one lone snowflake. Another fun way to show number correspondence: place an animal on your finger, hold it over each igloo, and nod the animal's head the number of times indicated (i.e., one nod for number 1; 5 nods for number 5).
  • Play "What's Missing?" to develop thinking and memory skills. Start by placing three or more animals or igloos in a row. Have your child turn away while you remove one of the items. When your child turns around, ask them which item is missing. For variation, let your child see you place an animal in one of three igloos. Cover the igloos and quickly shuffle them around! Do they remember in which igloo the animal is hiding? Were they able to follow the correct igloo with their eyes? Increase the difficulty by placing animals in all three igloos, mixing them around, and then asking your child to find one specific animal.
  • Can your child name and imitate every animal? Integrate imaginative play into a fun story or song, using the animals as finger puppets. For example: "All five polar animals are playing in the snow. Two animals, a fox and a penguin, take a nap (place them in the igloo). How many animals are still playing?"

Arctic Animal Sensory Bin

Set up a simple and engaging Arctic sensory bin for the kids during your following preschool Arctic theme. 

Supplies Needed:

To start, make snow and icebergs.

  • Put varying amounts of water in each muffin tin cavity and put it in the freezer until it is frozen.

  • Make fake snow by combining 6 cups of baking soda and 1 cup of conditioner. Mix them until they are fully incorporated. 

  • Mix a few drops of blue food coloring with a couple of cups of water if you would like.

Once everything is ready, you can assemble the bin.

  • Put the “snow” on one side of the bin.

  • Then put the craft gems on the edge of the snow.

  • Slowly pour the water into the other side of the bin. Some will seep into the snow. Use less water if you don’t want it to mix into the snow too much.

  • Remove the ice from the muffin tins and place them in the water.

  • Then add the Arctic animals to the bin.

Learning about the Arctic Habitat: Have discussions about the types of animals that live in the Arctic and what their habitat is like. Pair this activity with these books to add even more learning opportunities!

Icy Penguins!

Ready for the ultimate sensory math experience? Penguins on Ice™ is a highly engaging math activity that integrates hands-on fun with many math skills. Teach counting, sorting, problem-solving, computation skills, making 10, place value, and base ten concepts using these perky penguins and the cool blue ice bars. Keep little hands and busy brains working hard for hours of creative work and play! 

Here is what you'll need: 

  • Penguins on Ice

  • Water

  • Sensory Bin

  • Baking Soda

Add some water to the ice bars and freeze! Then, add some water to baking soda until packable and refrigerate while the ice freezes. Add penguins to the snow and have children work on patterning skills by finishing the pattern on the ice bars. Younger kids can work on counting and sorting by colors.

Learn more about the benefits of the As Seen on Reels - Icy Penguins!

Color by Number Winter Scene Printable

Use simple addition in this color-by-number printable to find what color to use in each space, then fill out this winter wonderland!

 READ MORE

7 Continents, 7 Holiday Traditions

At every moment right now, everywhere on the globe, billions of people are making their holiday preparations and plans, keeping the traditions of their culture alive. During this season of merrymaking, let’s take look at holiday customs celebrated on each of Earth’s continents – with special assistance from our Puzzle Globe and Buddy Builders!

Joyeux Noël, France!

More than 66 million people live in France, a country located on the continent of Europe. On Christmas Eve, children put their shoes out near the fireplace in the hopes that Père Noël (Santa Claus) will fill the shoes with gifts. It is no surprise with all the delicious French food that most of the holiday is centered around the Christmas Eve meal, or “Le Réveillon”. Sometimes the Christmas Eve dinner will go late into the night – maybe past midnight! Those who prep for such grand meals spend lots of time at the holiday markets – open-air shopping experiences for food pop up in major cities across France during holiday time.

Shubh Deepavali, India!

Located within the continent of Asia, India is home 1.32 billion people. Diwali is a colorful, light-filled feast for the eyes, celebrated by Hindus, Sikhs, and Buddhists, both in India and around the world. Typically falling between mid-October and mid-November, Diwali is the triumph of good over evil or light over darkness. It is the time of year to wear new clothes, visit friends and family, and share food, gifts, and sweets, all held over the span of five days. Homes are colorfully decorated and candles are lit to celebrate the light. And what better way to bring in the light than fireworks! Amazing pyrotechnic shows captivate Indian cities during the nights of Diwali.

Happy Hanukkah, United States!

The United States, situated in the middle of the continent of North America, blends lots of cultures and traditions. Millions of Jewish people in the U.S. celebrate Hanukkah, or “Festival of Lights”.  Reciting prayers, lighting a menorah with candlelight, and eating lots of traditional food stretch for eight nights during Hanukkah. Kids play games with a dreidel, a spinning top marked with letters in Hebrew. They also exchange gifts and sing songs. Traditional food for Jewish families are latkes, a type of yummy potato pancakes topped with applesauce or sour cream.

Nkwagaliza Sekukkulu, Uganda!

In Uganda, an inland country within the continent of Africa, Christmas is referred to as Sekukkulu. Held over December 24 and 25, this holiday is about food and family. Many food traditions are centered around chicken, which is often wrapped in banana leaves to steam it, giving it a special flavor this time of year. There is far less emphasis on giving gifts during Sekukkulu, rather an emphasis on sharing food and time with family and friends. However, new clothes, especially for children, are important part when stepping out to church on this holiday.

Feliz Navidad, Venezuela!

Christmas time in the country of Venezuela, located on the continent of South America, is a very joyous and religious time, lasting nearly a month! Like many families across the world, Venezuelans’ big celebration is on the night of Christmas Eve, where all go to church to celebrate the birth of Jesus. The center of many household decorations this time surprisingly not a Christmas tree, rather a pesebre, or nativity scene depicting the manger in Bethlehem. And in Venezuela on Christmas morning, most roads are closed off for the holiday. Many take to foot to head to church, being awoken by bells or firecrackers to signify the start of the celebration.

Merry Christmas, Australia!

Australia, both a continent and country, is located in Earth’s southern hemisphere. Grab the sunscreen because it is actually summertime in Australia during the holidays! Since Australians love to be outside, Christmas Day is typically spent at the beach, swimming or sailing. When Australians head out to sing their traditional “Carols by Candlelight”, they often change the traditional lyrics about snow and cold to fit their climate. The Aussies also celebrate Boxing Day on December 26, a day to recoup from the holiday, and to shop major sales from local retailers.

Happy New Year, Antarctica!

Antarctica, otherwise known as the South Pole (the literal polar opposite of where Santa hangs his hat), is the southern most point in the entire world. It also is the locale of the Amundsen-Scott South Pole Station, home to nearly 200 scientific researchers. To ring in each New Year, the scientists go out in the tundra and physically adjust the marker for the Geographic South Pole, to pinpoint the Earth’s axis of rotation. Because the South Pole itself sits onto of a sheet of ice, it moves about 30 feet every year. All the world’s flags involved in the South Pole Station surround it. What a way to ring in the New Year

 Sources: mentalfloss.com, aljazeera.com, history.com, thoughtco.com, thelocal.fr, kids.nationalgeographic.com, worldholidaytraditions.com, tripsavvy.com

7 Continents, 7 Holiday Traditions

At every moment right now, everywhere on the globe, billions of people are making their holiday preparations and plans, keeping the traditions of their culture alive. During this season of merrymaking, let’s take look at holiday customs celebrated on each of Earth’s continents – with special assistance from our Puzzle Globe and Buddy Builders!

Joyeux Noël, France!

More than 66 million people live in France, a country located on the continent of Europe. On Christmas Eve, children put their shoes out near the fireplace in the hopes that Père Noël (Santa Claus) will fill the shoes with gifts. It is no surprise with all the delicious French food that most of the holiday is centered around the Christmas Eve meal, or “Le Réveillon”. Sometimes the Christmas Eve dinner will go late into the night – maybe past midnight! Those who prep for such grand meals spend lots of time at the holiday markets – open-air shopping experiences for food pop up in major cities across France during holiday time.

Shubh Deepavali, India!

Located within the continent of Asia, India is home 1.32 billion people. Diwali is a colorful, light-filled feast for the eyes, celebrated by Hindus, Sikhs, and Buddhists, both in India and around the world. Typically falling between mid-October and mid-November, Diwali is the triumph of good over evil or light over darkness. It is the time of year to wear new clothes, visit friends and family, and share food, gifts, and sweets, all held over the span of five days. Homes are colorfully decorated and candles are lit to celebrate the light. And what better way to bring in the light than fireworks! Amazing pyrotechnic shows captivate Indian cities during the nights of Diwali.

Happy Hanukkah, United States!

The United States, situated in the middle of the continent of North America, blends lots of cultures and traditions. Millions of Jewish people in the U.S. celebrate Hanukkah, or “Festival of Lights”.  Reciting prayers, lighting a menorah with candlelight, and eating lots of traditional food stretch for eight nights during Hanukkah. Kids play games with a dreidel, a spinning top marked with letters in Hebrew. They also exchange gifts and sing songs. Traditional food for Jewish families are latkes, a type of yummy potato pancakes topped with applesauce or sour cream.

Nkwagaliza Sekukkulu, Uganda!

In Uganda, an inland country within the continent of Africa, Christmas is referred to as Sekukkulu. Held over December 24 and 25, this holiday is about food and family. Many food traditions are centered around chicken, which is often wrapped in banana leaves to steam it, giving it a special flavor this time of year. There is far less emphasis on giving gifts during Sekukkulu, rather an emphasis on sharing food and time with family and friends. However, new clothes, especially for children, are important part when stepping out to church on this holiday.

Feliz Navidad, Venezuela!

Christmas time in the country of Venezuela, located on the continent of South America, is a very joyous and religious time, lasting nearly a month! Like many families across the world, Venezuelans’ big celebration is on the night of Christmas Eve, where all go to church to celebrate the birth of Jesus. The center of many household decorations this time surprisingly not a Christmas tree, rather a pesebre, or nativity scene depicting the manger in Bethlehem. And in Venezuela on Christmas morning, most roads are closed off for the holiday. Many take to foot to head to church, being awoken by bells or firecrackers to signify the start of the celebration.

Merry Christmas, Australia!

Australia, both a continent and country, is located in Earth’s southern hemisphere. Grab the sunscreen because it is actually summertime in Australia during the holidays! Since Australians love to be outside, Christmas Day is typically spent at the beach, swimming or sailing. When Australians head out to sing their traditional “Carols by Candlelight”, they often change the traditional lyrics about snow and cold to fit their climate. The Aussies also celebrate Boxing Day on December 26, a day to recoup from the holiday, and to shop major sales from local retailers.

Happy New Year, Antarctica!

Antarctica, otherwise known as the South Pole (the literal polar opposite of where Santa hangs his hat), is the southern most point in the entire world. It also is the locale of the Amundsen-Scott South Pole Station, home to nearly 200 scientific researchers. To ring in each New Year, the scientists go out in the tundra and physically adjust the marker for the Geographic South Pole, to pinpoint the Earth’s axis of rotation. Because the South Pole itself sits onto of a sheet of ice, it moves about 30 feet every year. All the world’s flags involved in the South Pole Station surround it. What a way to ring in the New Year

 Sources: mentalfloss.com, aljazeera.com, history.com, thoughtco.com, thelocal.fr, kids.nationalgeographic.com, worldholidaytraditions.com, tripsavvy.com

 READ MORE

Last Minute Holiday Shopping on Amazon!

Get a head start on building someone amazing this holiday season with our fun, learning educational toys! Let us help you pick out the perfect toys for your little learner. These gifts will grow with your children and help you discover new learning fun every time you give a gift! 

Shop all now!

Holiday Preschool Puzzle Pack

Give the gift of preschool readiness skills in this year’s stocking stuffers! Your little ones can learn while playing with the Holiday Preschool Puzzle Pack from Learning Resources. This pack of 4 puzzle card sets includes two- and three-piece puzzles that help kids master early spelling, counting, shape, and number skills through brain-teasing puzzle play.

Each puzzle features full-color illustrations and fun holiday puzzle shapes, including an ornament, star, stocking, and tree. Designed with little ones in mind, each puzzle is self-correcting, making it easier for kids to puzzle out the right answer. The Holiday Preschool Puzzle Pack makes an easy stocking stuffer for kids—split up the puzzle packs among four different stockings, or give the entire set as one larger gift! The path towards new preschool readiness skills has never looked so festive!

Hot Cocoa Time!

Curl up with some hot cocoa! This cozy set is perfect for little ones looking to warm up on chilly days. The carafe, mugs, and chocolate container create the perfect recipe for imaginative play. Stir in as much chocolate as you like and top it all off with some fluffy marshmallows. Fresh-baked cookies are the perfect snack to enjoy with your toasty beverage.

Santa's Cookies Set

Get into the holiday spirit with this imaginative set of toy Christmas cookies just for Santa! Kids can add a touch of realism to winter role play with Santa’s Cookies from Learning Resources. This 12-piece set of fun play food includes everything kids for pretend baking fun, from cut-out cookies to a rolling pin, spatula, baking sheet, and more!

When their play Christmas cookies are ready, kids can serve them up to Santa with a plate, glass of “milk,” and write-and-wipe note that helps build essential imaginative skills. The perfect addition to any toy kitchen set, this play cookie set also helps kids master hand-eye coordination and fine motor skills with pieces that are just right for little hands. Each amount of play food wipes clean when playtime’s done and is durable enough for years of holiday play kitchen fun.

New Sprouts Fix It!

Reach in and feel all the textures! Help the fuzzy dog find all the bones he hid in his doghouse. All bones are textured and made of rubber or cloth and feature smooth, silky, scratchy, bumpy, ridged, and more textures. Grasping, exploring, and manipulating the different textured bones leads students to further develop their ability to use their fingers and hands purposefully and improve manual dexterity.

Rise & Shine Diner

Wake up and smell the imaginative learning fun! Kids start their day with restaurant pretend play every time they serve up pretend breakfasts from the Rise & Shine Diner from Learning Resources. This deluxe diner playset includes 23 play food versions of all your morning favorites, from waffles and pancakes to fried eggs, fruit, and more, as well as the, pretend utensils needed to “cook” and “eat” them!

Though this realistic play food looks good enough to eat, it’s even more fun to serve—the Rise & Shine Diner’s restaurant playset comes with everything kids need to open their play diner, including a write-and-wipe menu, placemat, and guest check that add a touch of authenticity to play restaurant role play. Each piece of play food wipes clean when playtime’s done and is durable enough for years of play restaurant fun.

Last Minute Holiday Shopping on Amazon!

Get a head start on building someone amazing this holiday season with our fun, learning educational toys! Let us help you pick out the perfect toys for your little learner. These gifts will grow with your children and help you discover new learning fun every time you give a gift! 

Shop all now!

Holiday Preschool Puzzle Pack

Give the gift of preschool readiness skills in this year’s stocking stuffers! Your little ones can learn while playing with the Holiday Preschool Puzzle Pack from Learning Resources. This pack of 4 puzzle card sets includes two- and three-piece puzzles that help kids master early spelling, counting, shape, and number skills through brain-teasing puzzle play.

Each puzzle features full-color illustrations and fun holiday puzzle shapes, including an ornament, star, stocking, and tree. Designed with little ones in mind, each puzzle is self-correcting, making it easier for kids to puzzle out the right answer. The Holiday Preschool Puzzle Pack makes an easy stocking stuffer for kids—split up the puzzle packs among four different stockings, or give the entire set as one larger gift! The path towards new preschool readiness skills has never looked so festive!

Hot Cocoa Time!

Curl up with some hot cocoa! This cozy set is perfect for little ones looking to warm up on chilly days. The carafe, mugs, and chocolate container create the perfect recipe for imaginative play. Stir in as much chocolate as you like and top it all off with some fluffy marshmallows. Fresh-baked cookies are the perfect snack to enjoy with your toasty beverage.

Santa's Cookies Set

Get into the holiday spirit with this imaginative set of toy Christmas cookies just for Santa! Kids can add a touch of realism to winter role play with Santa’s Cookies from Learning Resources. This 12-piece set of fun play food includes everything kids for pretend baking fun, from cut-out cookies to a rolling pin, spatula, baking sheet, and more!

When their play Christmas cookies are ready, kids can serve them up to Santa with a plate, glass of “milk,” and write-and-wipe note that helps build essential imaginative skills. The perfect addition to any toy kitchen set, this play cookie set also helps kids master hand-eye coordination and fine motor skills with pieces that are just right for little hands. Each amount of play food wipes clean when playtime’s done and is durable enough for years of holiday play kitchen fun.

New Sprouts Fix It!

Reach in and feel all the textures! Help the fuzzy dog find all the bones he hid in his doghouse. All bones are textured and made of rubber or cloth and feature smooth, silky, scratchy, bumpy, ridged, and more textures. Grasping, exploring, and manipulating the different textured bones leads students to further develop their ability to use their fingers and hands purposefully and improve manual dexterity.

Rise & Shine Diner

Wake up and smell the imaginative learning fun! Kids start their day with restaurant pretend play every time they serve up pretend breakfasts from the Rise & Shine Diner from Learning Resources. This deluxe diner playset includes 23 play food versions of all your morning favorites, from waffles and pancakes to fried eggs, fruit, and more, as well as the, pretend utensils needed to “cook” and “eat” them!

Though this realistic play food looks good enough to eat, it’s even more fun to serve—the Rise & Shine Diner’s restaurant playset comes with everything kids need to open their play diner, including a write-and-wipe menu, placemat, and guest check that add a touch of authenticity to play restaurant role play. Each piece of play food wipes clean when playtime’s done and is durable enough for years of play restaurant fun.

 READ MORE

Big Feelings About the Holidays!

Grab your Big Feelings Pineapple and color your very own winter wonderland! 

Print the Activity!

Big Feelings About the Holidays!

Grab your Big Feelings Pineapple and color your very own winter wonderland! 

Print the Activity!

 READ MORE

Holiday Snow Man Counting

Count the number of buttons on each snow man and circle the correct answer!

Print the Activity!

Holiday Snow Man Counting

Count the number of buttons on each snow man and circle the correct answer!

Print the Activity!

 READ MORE
learning-abcs-just-got-sweeter

Learning ABCs Just Got Sweeter!

Slip in some learning ABC games this National Cupcake Day with ABC Party Cupcake Toppers from Learning Resources! This sweet, award-winning set includes six colorful pretend play cupcakes with slots on top and storage inside, 26 double-sided letter toppers, and 26 picture toppers for some delicious learning and fun! Designed to guide your sweet-toothed sweetie from letter names and sounds to simple spelling, there are so many ways to play, like:

1. Learn Your Letters

Place a series of letters (experts recommend teaching S, A, T, I, P, and N first) on the cupcakes and ask your child to find a specific letter. Give them a broad hint, if need be, by telling them whether that cupcake has chocolate or vanilla frosting, or give a more particular hint by sharing the color of the frosting with that letter on top.ABC Games Letters

2. Learn Letter Sounds

Place a picture topper inside a cupcake and slot the letter topper with the first letter of that word on top. Ask your child to identify the letter, then ask what sound it makes. Pop the cupcake open to see the object starting with that sound. Or switch it up by placing the picture topper on top and asking what letter or sound it starts with.

3. Spell It

Several of the picture toppers feature objects spelled with just three letters. Choose one of these simple, sound-it-out words, and place it inside the cupcake. Then use the letter toppers to spell the word on top of the cupcake. Help your child sound it out, then open the cupcake to check their work!

4. Alpha Order

Place the toppers with the first six letters in the alphabet on top of the cupcakes and shuffle them around. Ask your child to put them alphabetically, singing the Alphabet Song for support. Continue with the rest of the alphabet, then pick letters at random for an extra sticky challenge.ABC Games Letter Toppers A-B-C

After practicing with the ABC Party Cupcake Toppers, surprise your sweetie with an actual cupcake-making session! Cupcakes make the perfect Valentine’s Day treat, and your kids can help this year because we’re sharing some of our favorite, kid-friendly cupcake ideas to make together on February 14. Once your cupcakes are baked and cooled…

Mix! Start with vanilla frosting (homemade or store-bought), drip a few drops of food coloring, and let your little one mix it up. Dip! Once your cupcakes are cool and frosted, let your kids dip them into bowls of sprinkles and candy hearts. Top! Kids can randomly place Valentine’s candies on top of the cupcakes or make patterns like Xs, Os, and hearts. Make a Monster! Make a mushy Valentine’s monster cupcake using marshmallows or M&Ms for eyes and pretzel sticks for antennae. And don’t forget to practice! Practice your letters while you bake by asking your child what letter makes the sound “mmm” like a monster or “Kuh” like a cupcake! Learning Resources’ ABC Party Cupcake Toppers make the perfect Valentine’s surprise for your sweetie – place your order today!ABC Games Cupcakes Tray

 

learning-abcs-just-got-sweeter
Learning ABCs Just Got Sweeter!

Slip in some learning ABC games this National Cupcake Day with ABC Party Cupcake Toppers from Learning Resources! This sweet, award-winning set includes six colorful pretend play cupcakes with slots on top and storage inside, 26 double-sided letter toppers, and 26 picture toppers for some delicious learning and fun! Designed to guide your sweet-toothed sweetie from letter names and sounds to simple spelling, there are so many ways to play, like:

1. Learn Your Letters

Place a series of letters (experts recommend teaching S, A, T, I, P, and N first) on the cupcakes and ask your child to find a specific letter. Give them a broad hint, if need be, by telling them whether that cupcake has chocolate or vanilla frosting, or give a more particular hint by sharing the color of the frosting with that letter on top.ABC Games Letters

2. Learn Letter Sounds

Place a picture topper inside a cupcake and slot the letter topper with the first letter of that word on top. Ask your child to identify the letter, then ask what sound it makes. Pop the cupcake open to see the object starting with that sound. Or switch it up by placing the picture topper on top and asking what letter or sound it starts with.

3. Spell It

Several of the picture toppers feature objects spelled with just three letters. Choose one of these simple, sound-it-out words, and place it inside the cupcake. Then use the letter toppers to spell the word on top of the cupcake. Help your child sound it out, then open the cupcake to check their work!

4. Alpha Order

Place the toppers with the first six letters in the alphabet on top of the cupcakes and shuffle them around. Ask your child to put them alphabetically, singing the Alphabet Song for support. Continue with the rest of the alphabet, then pick letters at random for an extra sticky challenge.ABC Games Letter Toppers A-B-C

After practicing with the ABC Party Cupcake Toppers, surprise your sweetie with an actual cupcake-making session! Cupcakes make the perfect Valentine’s Day treat, and your kids can help this year because we’re sharing some of our favorite, kid-friendly cupcake ideas to make together on February 14. Once your cupcakes are baked and cooled…

Mix! Start with vanilla frosting (homemade or store-bought), drip a few drops of food coloring, and let your little one mix it up. Dip! Once your cupcakes are cool and frosted, let your kids dip them into bowls of sprinkles and candy hearts. Top! Kids can randomly place Valentine’s candies on top of the cupcakes or make patterns like Xs, Os, and hearts. Make a Monster! Make a mushy Valentine’s monster cupcake using marshmallows or M&Ms for eyes and pretzel sticks for antennae. And don’t forget to practice! Practice your letters while you bake by asking your child what letter makes the sound “mmm” like a monster or “Kuh” like a cupcake! Learning Resources’ ABC Party Cupcake Toppers make the perfect Valentine’s surprise for your sweetie – place your order today!ABC Games Cupcakes Tray

 

 READ MORE
Pizza Fractions Printable!
Cut out all the different pizza slices and see if you can make your very own pizza pie!
 READ MORE
learn-spell-pip-pup
Learn to Spell with Pip the Pup!
READ MORE

DIY Chinese New Year Crafts

Full of bright colors and loud noises, the Chinese New Year begins on February 1 this year (the date of the celebration changes year to year because Chinese New Year starts on the second new moon after the winter solstice). In ancient times the festival was an effort by villagers to scare away a mythical wild beast named Nien with bright lights and big noises. Nowadays, Chinese New Year is celebrated worldwide with family dinners, thorough house cleaning, fireworks, and parades. Your family can enjoy the festivities with three cool crafts perfect for ringing in the Chinese New Year!

 

Paper Plate Chinese Dragon

The dragon is a symbol of China, thought to bring good luck. The dragon dance is a typical part of most Chinese New Year celebrations, and it is believed that the longer the dragon dances, the more luck he brings! Make a bit of your luck with this DIY Chinese Dragon project!

Materials

  • Paper plate
  • Red paint
  • Yellow construction paper
  • index cards or card stock paper
  • Markers
  • Scissors
  • Tape or glue craft sticks

1. Paint your paper plate red.

2. While drying, draw a dragon head on one index card and a tail on another. You can find many templates and inspiration online if you’re not a master artist. Color your dragon with vibrant-colored markers or crayons.

3. Cut the head and tail out and glue or tape each to the top of a craft stick. Packing tape works well.

4. Cut a piece of yellow construction paper, roughly 1” x 4”, accordion and fold it—tape one end to your dragon’s head and the other to its tail.

5. Use a knife to carefully slice the bottom of the center of the plate and insert your craft sticks into the opening.

Construction Paper Chinese Lantern

Chinese New Year lasts two weeks and culminates with The Lantern Festival. The Lantern Festival is celebrated near the beginning of springtime when it’s finally warm enough for people to go outside at night. People everywhere head out of doors, carrying lanterns, often red which symbolizes hope, to light their way. Follow the instructions below to create your Chinese Lanterns!

Materials

  • Red construction paper
  • Scissors
  • Stapler or tape

1. Fold your sheet of construction paper in half, longways, pressing to make a heavy crease at the fold.

2. Cut through the folded edge of the paper, stopping about a ½” from the other side. Continue cutting until you read the other side.

3. Unfold the paper and tape or staple the two edges together to form a tube.

4. Add a handle made of a strip of construction paper and embellish your lantern with fringe, ribbon, and stickers. Tape or staple a tube of paper in another color to the inside of your lantern to create a “hurricane” style, or add a bit of fringed paper to the bottom edge. 

DIY Chinese New Year Crafts

Full of bright colors and loud noises, the Chinese New Year begins on February 1 this year (the date of the celebration changes year to year because Chinese New Year starts on the second new moon after the winter solstice). In ancient times the festival was an effort by villagers to scare away a mythical wild beast named Nien with bright lights and big noises. Nowadays, Chinese New Year is celebrated worldwide with family dinners, thorough house cleaning, fireworks, and parades. Your family can enjoy the festivities with three cool crafts perfect for ringing in the Chinese New Year!

 

Paper Plate Chinese Dragon

The dragon is a symbol of China, thought to bring good luck. The dragon dance is a typical part of most Chinese New Year celebrations, and it is believed that the longer the dragon dances, the more luck he brings! Make a bit of your luck with this DIY Chinese Dragon project!

Materials

  • Paper plate
  • Red paint
  • Yellow construction paper
  • index cards or card stock paper
  • Markers
  • Scissors
  • Tape or glue craft sticks

1. Paint your paper plate red.

2. While drying, draw a dragon head on one index card and a tail on another. You can find many templates and inspiration online if you’re not a master artist. Color your dragon with vibrant-colored markers or crayons.

3. Cut the head and tail out and glue or tape each to the top of a craft stick. Packing tape works well.

4. Cut a piece of yellow construction paper, roughly 1” x 4”, accordion and fold it—tape one end to your dragon’s head and the other to its tail.

5. Use a knife to carefully slice the bottom of the center of the plate and insert your craft sticks into the opening.

Construction Paper Chinese Lantern

Chinese New Year lasts two weeks and culminates with The Lantern Festival. The Lantern Festival is celebrated near the beginning of springtime when it’s finally warm enough for people to go outside at night. People everywhere head out of doors, carrying lanterns, often red which symbolizes hope, to light their way. Follow the instructions below to create your Chinese Lanterns!

Materials

  • Red construction paper
  • Scissors
  • Stapler or tape

1. Fold your sheet of construction paper in half, longways, pressing to make a heavy crease at the fold.

2. Cut through the folded edge of the paper, stopping about a ½” from the other side. Continue cutting until you read the other side.

3. Unfold the paper and tape or staple the two edges together to form a tube.

4. Add a handle made of a strip of construction paper and embellish your lantern with fringe, ribbon, and stickers. Tape or staple a tube of paper in another color to the inside of your lantern to create a “hurricane” style, or add a bit of fringed paper to the bottom edge. 

 READ MORE
Previous Page 1 ... 3 4 5 6 7