Animal Mix-up Puzzle

I got this fun and easy idea from one of my new favorite blogs, I Can Teach My Child. She has so many great activity ideas for small children, I decided I needed to try her Animal Mix-Up Legos.

This was designed for the Duplo Lego blocks, but would probably work for any pre-school construction blocks in this size with a little adjustment.  I went on an image search and found the animal pictures, but you can also go here for the photos she used and her sizing directions.

Print photos, cut out, tape to blocks. Easy Peasy.

After assembly, just scatter the blocks on the floor and let the fun commence.

Jellybean is two. It took a little bit for her to figure this out. Once she did, she loved finding the correct pieces and putting them together. I'm thinking I may print a few more photos and cut them in quarters for the smaller square blocks. That should make it just a little trickier for my four year old.

Such a simple idea and so much fun. Jellybean has been carrying her puzzle around with her and even taking it to bed at night. She's kind of attached.

I also have some good news! I'll be guest posting this morning about my Read With Me Book Bags over at The Practically Perfect Princess. Go check it out! 

Have a Happy Day!

~MJ

Book Review: Going on a Bear Hunt

It is amazing to me when a simple story can spark the imaginations of my children and inspire hours of creative play as well.  Recently, we picked up a copy of We're Going on a Bear Hunt, retold by Michael Rosen and illustrated by Helen Oxenbury. 

The repetitive text and beautiful illustrations combined with an adorable story have made it perfect for my 2 and 4 year old. Books that use onomatopoeia are especially good for this age group. I also find that, for me, sound effects make reading a book out loud over and over again more palatable. The "squelch, squerch" of the mud and the "hoooo woooo" of the wind are particular favorites with my kids.

Since purchasing a copy of this book, we have read it and re-read it.  Each re-reading is followed by an enthusiastic, "again!" Jellybean likes to say the words with me, especially the phrase, "Oh no! We'll have to go through it!" Her sweet, "oh no!" gives me a kick. Every. Single. Time.

When reading is done, I've had fun acting out the story with my children.  The front door rug becomes the oozy mud, the carpeted dining room becomes the wavy grass and Daddy's office becomes the gloomy cave.  We've even discovered the bear a few times, rushed up the stairs, run into my room, jumped into bed and hid under the covers. Buddy loves to wander the house now, hunting for a bear.  He's very vigilant and doesn't let any obstacles get in his way.   

It's not a new book.  I'd heard the name and seen it on bookshelves before, but hadn't ever read it myself.  In fact,  I may be the only person who hadn't read it until now.  If you are like I was and haven't had the opportunity, it's well worth adding to your collection. I'm looking forward to all of the bear hunts I'll get to go on with my children in the future.

Have a Happy Day!

~MJ

Great Toddler Gift Combo

Looking for a great toddler gift idea? 

Kid O Cutting Fruit

Orange Pear Apple Bear by Emily Gravett

Either the toy or the book on its own is a good gift, but together they would be awesome.  This dynamic duo is capable of teaching color recognition, grammar, fractions and how to hold a knife (an essential skill for ages 1-4. heh.). My little ones have enjoyed both.

Have a Happy Day!

~MJ