Mini Lessons are a great way to introduce ideas and concepts that don't already fit into our daily work...and they're pretty much the kids' favorite part of the day. I never tell them ahead of time what it will be. The surprise helps keep them fun.
Here are some of the lessons we've done...
1. Tell a short story that includes basic shapes. Trace the shapes in the air while you tell it, and then have everyone draw an interpretation of the story. After you've set the example, have the kids tell a brief story and have everyone draw theirs, too.
2. Compare a flat world map with a globe. Find where you live on both. Identify the 7 continents. Color and label the continents on a blank world map.
3. Measure things around the house with a measuring tape/ruler. Record findings. (When we did this, we discovered that Y's neck is bigger around than his big sister's and brother's necks! No wonder we can't button the top button of his church shirt!)
4. Make coin critters! We absolutely love this idea from Family Fun.
5. Make paper airplanes. Talk about lift and gravity. Color and label a diagram of a wing.
6. Build card houses. (This one turned into a zoo for little stuffed animals.)
7. ABC Gratitudes. Write out the letters A-Z, one letter on each line. The first person fills in something that they're grateful for that starts with an A, then passes it to the next person, until you have a whole alphabet of thanksgiving.
8. Work on memorizing the 50 States Song.
Right after Mini Lesson, I read aloud to the kids, so I like to finish with something they can do with their hands while I read...usually it's some kind of coloring. They also like to embroider, finger knit, draw, and write notes while I read.
I keep a running list of ideas that is easily accessible because some days I have lots of ideas and other days I don't.
I love this idea!! I will definitely have to give your mini lessons idea a go!! Thanks for sharing all of your ideas!! Wonderful blog!
ReplyDeleteLove these ideas!!! Please keep them coming!!
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