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I got a wonderful surprise from 2 Cove friends when I got home from my morning walk.

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I came home from a walk this morning and I found this happy Easter note from two of my Cove friends. It made my day!

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DESE Resources for all subject including Sp Ed and ELL resources

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DESE Resources for all subject including Sp Ed and ELL resources

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Some districts and schools have been, or will soon be, providing students and families with educational resources to help students continue learning while schools are closed. In addition to those resources provided by local districts and schools, the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) pulled together this list of available resources that can support students and families while schools are closed. This list is not comprehensive, and DESE does not endorse these products. We are making the list available to families and caregivers as a way to support engaging students in learning while they are out of school.

Family Guides to the Massachusetts Curriculum Standards (Created by DESE)
These guides to the Massachusetts learning standards help families understand what students are expected to know and be able to do by the end of each grade. Designed to help families and teachers work together to support learning, the guides are available in English, Spanish, Brazilian Portuguese, and Simplified Chinese. Promotional materials advertising these resources are also available in English, Spanish, and Portuguese.

DESE and WGBH Partnership for Educational Resources

The Department is partnering with WGBH to bring educational resources to students and families through television and digital media. WGBH has created a distance learning site, and we hope to reach as many students and caregivers as possible. PBS LearningMedia is a free digital repository of tens of thousands of high-quality media resources that are contextualized for educational use. The resources span disciplines for grades PreK-12, are aligned to national and state standards, and include videos, comprehensive lessons, interactive activities, and support materials (teaching tips, background readings, and student handouts). Here are just a few collections on PBS LearningMedia to explore:

Bringing the Universe to America's Classrooms: Earth and space science, created in collaboration with NASA. Grades K-12.

AMERICAN EXPERIENCE: History and social studies resources from one of public media's flagship broadcasts. Grades 4-12.

ARTHUR: Beloved characters keep the focus on community, civics, and social-emotional learning. Grades PreK-5.

Molly of Denali: The MOLLY OF DENALI™ collection offers videos, digital games, lessons, teaching tips, and activities with a focus on informational text. Grades PreK-2.

Math at the Core Middle School: Engaging media and integrated activities, all aligned with the Massachusetts mathematics standards . Grades 5-8.

Inspiring Middle School Literacy: Self-paced lessons include videos, interactive activities, note taking, reading, and writing to present students with engaging science, social studies, mathematics, and English language arts topics. Grades 5-8.

NOVA Education Resources: Authentic, real-world science learning. Grades 7-13+.

Digital Resources designed for remote learning and available free of charge:

English Language Arts and Literacy

Keep your child reading every day.

CommonLit: A free collection of fiction and nonfiction texts for grades 3-12. Includes an annotation tool, guiding and discussion questions, translations in various languages, and texts read aloud.

Great Minds: Great Minds has daily lessons in Wit & Wisdom (English language arts) available for free for students in grades K-8 . These lessons will be delivered by Great Minds' own teachers and will be viewable on any device.

Heggerty: Free activities to build foundational reading skills. These are best for ages 4-6.

Hoopla and OverDrive: Many local public libraries use these two apps to allow users to borrow digital books for free. Visit your local library's website and look for the section on digital resources.

StoryLine Online: Hear quality children's literature read aloud and see illustrations.

History, Social Studies, and Civics

iCivics: iCivics offers free, engaging civics content, including lesson plans and games for students to play digitally, content about media literacy, and Advanced Placement (AP) U.S. Government and Politics prep.

EVERFI: Offers interactive financial literacy and social and emotional learning lessons. They have a bank of free digital lessons that can be accessed by registering as a student or a teacher.

Gilder Lehrman Institute of American History: This website is geared specifically at preparing AP U.S. History students virtually. It includes primary sources, essays, videos, and study guides aligned with the AP curriculum.

National Constitution Center: In addition to the interactive Constitution tool, they host several educational resources and games.

Stanford History Education Group: The Reading Like a Historian curriculum is free with registration and offers ready-to-go lessons on world and U.S. history based on primary source investigations.

STEM [Science and Technology/Engineering, Mathematics, Digital Literacy and Computer Science]

Code.org: Provides learning resources that help students learn about computer science and programming on their own. Offerings include Computer Science (CS) Fundamentals for K-5 and online courses and labs for middle and high school (CS Express, App Lab, Game Lab, and Web Lab).

Great Minds: Free daily lessons available in grades 3-5 science and grades K-12 Eureka Math. These lessons will be delivered by Great Minds' own teachers and will be viewable on any device. In addition, access to the full K-12 Eureka Math program is available for free.

Khan Academy: Khan Academy has outlined support for parents and educators on how to use their resources during remote learning. Khan Academy is a free resource for students, teachers, and parents with a library of lessons covering kindergarten through early college math, grammar, science, history, plus AP?courses, SAT?preparation, and more. Available in 40 languages.

PhET Online Simulations: A library of online simulations that students can play with and explore to investigate scientific and mathematical models. Can be sorted bygrade level.

Smithsonian Science How Webcast: These webcasts originally aired live from the National Museum of Natural History in Washington, D.C. They're great for students in grades 3-8 and are optimized for students in grades 3-5.

ST Math: A web-based visual instructional program that leads to deep conceptual understanding of math. ST Math is offering parents free access through June 30 for grades K-8.

Zearn K-5 Mathematics: Zearn has made its entire curriculum, including 400 hours of digital lessons with on-screen teachers and supportive remediation, available for free. To access these materials, go to the Distance Learning Resource Center for:

Quick-start instructions for using Zearn Math programmatically as part of a distance learning plan

Daily webinars for administrators, teachers, and parents to walk through quick-start instructions. Each webinar will offer 'office hours' with time for questions with the Zearn team.

Physical Education

Arts (Dance, Media Arts, Music, Theater, and Visual arts)

General Online Learning Resources (All or Multiple Content Areas)

SketchUp: In order to provide uninterrupted SketchUp access to the unprecedented numbers of students and teachers now working/studying from home, we have implemented some temporary changes to the way students can access SketchUp.

Brainpop: Free resources and tools that develop critical, computational, and creative thinking skills across the curriculum, especially for younger children. Available in Spanish, French, and English.

Listenwise: Supports listening comprehension with stories and non-fiction in English language arts, social studies and science. Subscriptions are free.

Newsela: Digital subscriptions for free in English language arts, social science, and science and supports social emotional learning.

Scholastic Learn at Home: General videos and learning activities.

TechforLearners.org: Searchable database of education technology tools that facilitate online classrooms and teaching, allowing educators to search for free and discounted tools and services by grade level, product type, and subject matter. The site will soon include additional resources for parents and students.

WatchKnowLearn: Free educational videos in all content areas.

Resources for English Learners

Supporting Students with Disabilities

The Massachusetts Council for Exceptional Children (MCEC) has created an open-access resource folder for Massachusetts educators in order to exchange educational resources. General education and special education teachers are encouraged to share resources through this online forum. For ease of use, MCEC has created individual folders by grade level, from preschool through secondary transition.

Special education teachers, general education teachers, related service providers, and administrators are encouraged to reach out to students and families by phone, email, and other means of communication in order to ensure that students with disabilities can access educational resources provided by the district.

Last Updated: April 3, 2020

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massachusetts department of elementary and secondary education

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Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education

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Educational Resources for Students and Families

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The goal of the Massachusetts public K-12 education system is to prepare all students for success after high school. Massachusetts public school students are leading the nation in reading and math and are at the top internationally in reading, science, and math according to the national NAEP and international PISA assessments.

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Big List of Authors Reading Stories Aloud

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Big List of Authors Reading Stories Aloud

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Awesome!

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It's no surprise that authors are incredibly good at bringing their own books to life. Whether through live or pre-recorded visits, read-aloud videos, or other virtual author activities, kids will connect with books like never before! Here are some of our favorite options to try.

Pre-Recorded Virtual Author Visits

Check out these videos of presentations authors have given at schools and libraries. There are authors here that will interest students at any age.

Arree Chung

Hear Chung talk about the process of creating his book Mixed: A Colorful Story. The allegory of one color who thinks it's better than the others is meaningful at any age.

Bao Phi

Bao Phi's lovely book A Different Pond showcases the relationship between a father and his son. As they fish for the food their family needs, the father tells his son about a pond from his own childhood in faraway Vietnam.

Jasmine Warga

Author of the Newbery Honor book Other Words for Home, Jasmine Warga gives an engaging talk about how she writes.

Jennifer L. Holm

From her Babymouse graphic novels to the Sunny series and beyond, Holm writes books that middle grade readers absolutely love.

J.H. Reynolds

Do your students love the thrills and chills of the MonsterStreet series? Then they'll love seeing its author answer kids' questions about reading and writing!

J.K. Rowling

Every kid will recognize the author of the beloved Harry Potter books! See her interview with the Harry Potter Reading Club in this video.

Kate Messner

Kate Messner writes fiction, nonfiction, novels, chapter books, and picture books, so there's a good chance most kids have read at least one of her books.

Katherine Applegate

Lots of kids read The One and Only Ivan in class, and Applegate has plenty of other popular and award-winning books as well. Hear her talk about her books (and even show off her adorable dog!).

Lois Lowry

Here's another name kids will recognize. Whether they love The Giver, the Gooney Bird series, or any of her other numerous works, they'll enjoy listening to her speak and answer audience questions.

Max Brallier

The Last Kids on Earth book series is now a Netflix series too! Listen to author Max Brallier talk about his writing process and give kids a writing challenge of their own.

Live Virtual Author Visits

Want to set up a virtual author visit live for your class or school? If you have a particular author in mind, visit their website (or their publisher's) to contact them and find out if they do virtual visits. Scholastic offers virtual author visits through their catalog, so that's a great place to start.

The Society of Children's Book Writers and Illustrators has a terrific roundup of virtual author visits and writing workshops too. Here are some to consider.

Gutman has written all sorts of books for kids, and he's happy to do virtual school visits. Find his offerings and prices at his website.

Nonfiction children's author Kurtz loves to present his books to kids of all ages. His virtual offerings include readings, interviews, and concept-based workshops.

Long does both in-person and virtual author visits based on her popular books, like How I Became a Pirate. Visit her website to see her offerings and book a visit.

Biebow's colorful book about the inventor of Crayola crayons is a delight. She offers free virtual visits, plus interactive in-person workshops.

Known for Dahlia in Bloom, Koehler offers both virtual author visits and writing workshops. She does professional development workshops for teachers too.

Virtual Author Read-Alouds

When you hear authors read their own books, it gives you a whole new perspective on their works. That makes read-alouds some of our favorite virtual author activities.

Hale's YouTube channel includes a playlist called Storytime With Uncle Bruce. Hear him read about Clark the Shark and other hilarious characters.

Gutman has a whole collection of read-alouds on his Facebook page, like Miss Blake Is a Flake. Kids will love his wacky style!

Visit her YouTube channel to see the author read her book Where Are My Books? She's got a few other read-alouds too, along with drawing tips.

Fabien Cousteau is the grandson of famed sea explorer Jacques Cousteau. His book series explores his own experiences under the water, and you can watch his read-aloud on Facebook.

You'll feel inspired when you hear Byers read her heartfelt book I Am Enough.

Lin reads aloud from her picture books as well as chapters from her longer books on her YouTube channel.

Watch Knowles read the first chapter of her middle-grade novel Where the Heart Is, while giving students a fun writing exercise.

Hear Cook read a variety of books from her collection, like Wilma Jean the Worry Machine. Her YouTube channel also includes interviews, advice, and other fun virtual author activities.

Watch Messner read Fergus and Zeke and the 100th Day of School in this YouTube video.

This read-aloud of Fry Bread includes some of the author's thoughts on writing the book and the recipe he included at the end.

Listen to Henderson read the first chapter of her book The Magic in Changing Your Stars on YouTube.

The author regularly shares read-alouds of his books, like I Love You Like a Pig, on his Instagram page.

The author has added a collection of videos of herself reading from her picture books on Instagram. Titles include When We Are Kind and You Hold Me Up.

Hear readings from Shusterman's books on his YouTube channel, including excerpts and complete short stories.

The author created a Stay at Home: Story Time section on his website. Initially made during the 2020 COVID lockdown, these videos are still lots of fun to watch.

Visit Reynolds' Facebook page to see him read from some of his most popular books, like The Dot.

The award-winning author and illustrator reads from her book The Story of Ruth Bader Ginsburg in this YouTube video.

The author reads his picture books on his YouTube channel, where he also has lots of drawing videos for inspiration.

Other Virtual Author Activities

So many wonderful authors and publishers have YouTube or Instagram channels! Join them as they teach you how to draw, offer writing tips, and lots more.

Kids will do more than just watch these videos. They'll write, draw, and create on their own, inspired by famous authors and illustrators.

Watch story time, Cressida Cowell's summer camp, author interviews, how-to-draw videos, and a whole lot more.

The prolific author has a robust website full of videos, activities, podcasts, and more virtual author activities to engage kids of a variety of ages.

The Lunch Lady author and illustrator has a series of videos showing kids how to draw some of their favorite characters. His YouTube channel also has cartooning tips, writing tips, pep talks, and shorts.

This YouTube channel is rich with content, including interviews, tour journals, how-to-draw tips, and so much more.

The Kennedy Center sponsored this series of videos with the beloved author of classics like Don't Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus!

Author and illustrator of hits like Smile and Drama shares drawings, time-lapse videos, and more on her Instagram page.

Aspiring illustrators will enjoy this series, where any kid can learn to draw creatures of every kind.

These half-hour chats with well-known middle grade authors are the perfect length to share with your classes.

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The Big List of Virtual Author Activities

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Check out live and pre-recorded author visits, read-alouds, and other virtual author activities like drawing sessions to share with students.

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Worth a listen

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Five Mindful Habits for All to Increase Happiness and Connection

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Great resource!

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Nemours KidsHealth - the Web's most visited site about children's health

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KidsHealth is the #1 most-trusted source for physician-reviewed information and advice on children's health and parenting issues. For parents, kids, teens, and educators, in English and in Spanish.

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Very special story!

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Time to Come In, Bear: A Children's Story About Social Distancing

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Renewing school climate and culture

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Home JREN HOME - Jostens Renaissance Education

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Renewing school climate and culture for the 21st century.

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Good resources

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Grief.com is dedicated to help everyone deal with the often unknown terrain that comes along with all kinds of grief. Through education, information and other helpful resources we hope to make the challenging road of grief a little easier.

FAQs on Grief

Here you will find frequently Asked Questions about Grief & Grieving. From what is anticipatory grief? How long grief does last? Why not avoid grief? Should children go to a funeral? And many others.
Read More

Help With The First Few Days

If someone close to you has just passed away, you may feel like you're in a fog. That's OK. What you are going through is a tremendously painful experience.
Read More.

Suicide & Grief

When we lose a loved one to suicide, it feels like we will never be the same. But we can heal and begin to build a life of love around the loss.
Read More.

One Day Seminars

These informative workshops are open to anyone dealing with death or grief. Therapists, counselors, & nurses may receive continuing education credits. All are welcome!
See Dates and Cities.
LATEST BOOK

Finding Meaning: The Sixth Stage of Grief

In this groundbreaking new work, David Kessler-an expert on grief and the coauthor with Elisabeth Kübler-Ross of the iconic On Grief and Grieving-journeys beyond the classic five stages to discover a sixth stage: meaning.

In this book, Kessler gives readers a roadmap to remembering those who have died with more love than pain; he shows us how to move forward in a way that honors our loved ones. Kessler's insight is both professional and intensely personal. His journey with grief began when, as a child, he witnessed a mass shooting at the same time his mother was dying. For most of his life, Kessler taught physicians, nurses, counselors, police, and first responders about end of life, trauma, and grief, as well as leading talks and retreats for those experiencing grief. Despite his knowledge, his life was upended by the sudden death of his twenty-one-year-old son.

How does the grief expert handle such a tragic loss? He knew he had to find a way through this unexpected, devastating loss, a way that would honor his son. That, ultimately, was the sixth state of grief-meaning. In Finding Meaning, Kessler shares the insights, collective wisdom, and powerful tools that will help those experiencing loss. Read More

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Grief?
Grief is the internal part of loss, how we feel. The internal work of grief is a process, a journey. It does not end on a certain day or date. It is as individual as each of us. Grief is real because loss is real. Each grief has its own imprint, as distinctive and as unique as the person we lost. The pain of loss is so intense, so heartbreaking, because in loving we deeply connect with another human being, and grief is the reflection of the connection that has been lost.

When does Grief end?
Grief is not just a series of events, or stages or timelines. Our Society places enormous pressure on us to get over loss, to get through the grief. But how long do you grieve for a husband of fifty years? A teenager killed in a car accident? A four-year-old child? A year? Five years? Forever? The loss happens in time, in fact in a moment, but its aftermath lasts a lifetime.
Read More Frequently asked Questions
In May of 2017, Dolores Cruz's 24-year-old son, Eric, was killed in a horrific car accident. In the depths of grief, she began a quest to find answers. She searched to find out how this could happen, to find the God she thought she knew, to find meaning and purpose in her life, to find truth, and to find her son. Little by little she was able to gain a whole new philosophy and understanding of life, death, afterlife and God. She found healing and peace in the realization that not only was Eric still around in spirit, but that the love he gave us while he was here on Earth continues on. This is her story. And this is the story of Eric, a model son, a loving sibling, a loyal friend, and a musician with a heart of gold, who left his physical body at age 24, and how he came here to change us, to affect us, to make us better, and to remind us to look around and appreciate the wonders of this beautiful world that we take for granted.

Tips for planning an online funeral

Make sure you have a good, fast, and reliable internet connection where the service will be held. Funeral homes will generally have the right setup, but other locations may not.

Designate someone other than the funeral officiant to run the technical aspects of the online session.

If friends and family in other locations will be speaking or presenting, make sure they test out their connection and setup as well.

It's a good idea to have a test run, which can also be an opportunity to gather as a smaller group and mourn together.

Read more about planning an online funeral
Meet Contributing Author & Grief Expert: David Kessler

David Kessler is one of the most well-known experts and lecturers on death and grieving today, reaching hundreds of thousands of people through his books. "On Grief and Grieving: Finding the Meaning of Grief through the Five Stages of Loss is co-authored with the legendary Elisabeth Kübler-Ross. David also co-authored with Kübler-Ross, "Life Lessons: Two Experts on Death and Dying Teach us about the Mysteries of Life and Living." David considers it an honor and privilege to have worked so closely with Elisabeth for ten years and to be with her during her passing. Learn More about David Kessler

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Grief.com - Help For Grief Because LOVE Never Dies

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Helping Others Heal From Grief is Our Mission. We Serve Family, Friends and Professionals with Videos, Books, Workshops & Speaking Engagements.

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Suggested by Jessica Minahan

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At a glance

Kids can learn to manage their emotions and work on social skills.

You can help your child with social-emotional learning by playing fun games at home.

There are lots of simple games you can play during everyday activities.

Many schools have started teaching kids how to do things like cope with feelings, set goals, and get along with others. It's called social-emotional learning. You can help your child work on these skills at home, too.

Here are a handful of activities that can help your child manage emotions and work on social skills - and have some fun with you along the way. These games are very low-tech. And all are designed to fit easily into daily routines.

1. Starfish and tornadoes

Try playing this game at different times of day, and help your child describe the energy levels. For example, if you play this game before dinner, you can say, "You have so much energy, I bet you could run up and down the stairs five times before I finish cooking!"

Keep in mind: Self-awareness can help kids build a skill called self-regulation. This skill is about managing your internal energy. It helps kids manage their emotions and their body movements during tough situations. It also helps them pay attention and learn.

The goal: To help kids practice observing what's going on around them. Picking up on social cues helps kids get their needs met and understand the perspective of others.

Help your child connect these observations with choosing how to behave. For example, when the swings are crowded, your child may decide to go on the slide first.

To help your child come up with ideas, comment whenever you notice your child's positive behaviors: "You just offered to teach your sister a nursery rhyme. Let's talk for a second about what kind of person you're being right now."

Also, you can buy these kinds of cards or find templates online. But kids might like making the cards themselves.

How to play: When you and your child can't agree, use the tune of "This Old Man" to sing these lines: "You want this. I want that. How can we both get what we want?" Then brainstorm solutions and choose the best idea for right now. For example, if your child is demanding to bake cookies at 8 a.m., the best solution might be to wait two hours so you can bake when the baby is napping.

5. Taking turns taking charge

Key takeaways

Simple, fun games can help kids learn to cope with feelings, set goals, and get along with others.

Self-regulation helps kids manage their emotions and their body movements.

Praising good behavior often leads to more of it.

About the author

About the author

Kate Kelly has been writing and editing for more than 20 years, with a focus on parenting.

Reviewed by

Reviewed by

Lynne Kenney, PsyD is a Harvard-trained pediatric psychologist and international educator in Scottsdale, Arizona.

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5 social-emotional learning games to play with your child

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Social-emotional learning activities can help kids learn to manage emotions and get along with other kids. These games are simple, low-cost, and low-tech, and can be built into your daily activities.

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OCR Supplemental Fact Sheet Addressing the Risk of COVID-19 in Preschool, Elementary and Secondary Schools While Serving Children with Disabilities 

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OCR Supplemental Fact Sheet Addressing the Risk of COVID-19 in Preschool, Elementary and Secondary Schools While Serving Children with Disabilities 

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A plethora!

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General Resources
Scholastic Learn at Home
Scholastic Learn at Home
Hour of Code Activities
Hour of Code Activities
Coding with Scratch
Coding with Scratch
Dream It! Code It!
Dream It! Code It!
Boston Children's Museum
Boston Children's Museum
Article
Article
Smithsonian Institute Resources
Smithsonian Institute Resources
Time for Kids
Time for Kids
Wonderopolis
Wonderopolis
Newsela
Newsela
Virtual Field Trips
Virtual Field Trips
LEGO challenges
LEGO challenges 
The Kid Should See This
The Kid Should See This
Museum of Fine Arts
Museum of Fine Arts
Educational Shows on Netflix
Educational Shows on Netflix
50 Elearning Activities
50 Elearning Activities
Get Your Teach On Reseources
Get Your Teach On Reseources
Choice Boards
Choice Boards
IXL
IXL
BrainPop
BrainPop
See Saw
See Saw 
CODE
CODE
Norton Public School's Learning
Norton Public School's Learning 
Exemplar site

12 Famous Museums to Tour Virtually
12 Famous Museums to Tour Virtually
Scholastic's Coronavirus Update
Scholastic's Coronavirus Update
Planning for School Closings
Franklin Public School's Resource
Franklin Public School's Resource 
Exemplar site
Article -A Different Perspective
Article -A Different Perspective
A good read!

add
Social Studies/History
📎 Ancient Civilizations | Ancient History for Kids
National Geographic for Kids
National Geographic for Kids
Ken Burns Classroom
Ken Burns Classroom
Smithsonian Resource
Smithsonian Resource

add
Art
Draw Every Day with Author/Illustrator Jarrett J. Krosoczka
Draw Every Day with Author/Illustrator Jarrett J. Krosoczka
Online Art Lessons
Online Art Lessons
Jarrett Lerner
Jarrett Lerner
Create a Stop Motion Animation Video
Create a Stop Motion Animation Video
Create Your Own Paint
Create Your Own Paint
100 Silly Drawing Prompts
100 Silly Drawing Prompts
The Tate Museum for Kids
The Tate Museum for Kids
National Gallery of Art Daily Gallery Tours on Twitter
National Gallery of Art Daily Gallery Tours on Twitter
National Gallery of
National Gallery of Arts
Art Lessons
Art Lessons
Make a Flip Book
Make a Flip Book

add
Music
Sing a Longs
Sing a Longs
Music Lab
Music Lab

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ELL
Elementary ELL Resources
Elementary ELL Resources
ELL
ELL
Browse by grade

add
Special Education
Elementary Resources
Elementary Resources
📎 Do2Learn: Educational Resources for Special Needs

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"I think I can. I think I can. I think I can," says the Little Blue Engine to herself as she hauls a train full of toys up a mountain. In Watty Piper's classic children's book, all it takes is a dose of self-encouragement to give the engine the strength to overcome a seemingly impossible task.

Sound too good to be true? Perhaps not, a new study suggests. Researchers found that a simple, five-minute exercise can help boost math performance, especially for students who have poor confidence in their math ability. When students silently spoke words of encouragement to themselves that were focused on effort-saying phrases such as "I will do my very best!"-their math scores improved.

In the study, 212 Dutch schoolchildren in grades 4 to 6 took half of a standardized math test. After taking the half-test, they were split into three groups: The first group silently said to themselves words of encouragement focused on effort. The second group did a similar activity, but the words were focused on ability, favoring phrases such as "I'm very good at this." The third group didn't engage in self-talk at all. Afterward, the students took the second half of the math test.

Students who had participated in self-talk focused on effort improved their math performance on the test, while those who engaged in self-talk focused on ability, or no self-talk at all, experienced no improvement.

"When children with low self-confidence work on mathematics problems, they often worry about failure," Sander Thomaes, the lead researcher of the study, told Edutopia. "They experience challenges and struggles-for example, a difficult problem to solve-as cues of low ability, triggering disengagement from the task and worsening performance. Effort self-talk may counter this process."

So why doesn't self-talk focused on ability work? Saying "I am the best" can feel like a hollow claim when students don't feel confident about their own abilities-they're likely to dismiss the message entirely, explained Thomaes. But telling yourself "I will try my hardest" is an achievable goal, shifting attention away from a perceived lack of ability toward something within a student's control: effort.

Self-Talk and the Emotional Terrain of Learning

In the 1920s, Russian psychologist Lev Vygotsky observed that when faced with a challenging task, young children often engage in self-talk, reminding themselves to focus harder or talking themselves through a series of complicated steps. As children get older, the self-regulation strategies are generally no longer vocalized, but an emerging body of research suggests that lightweight, metacognitive exercises that ask older students to reflect on their fears, anxieties, or challenges are still highly beneficial-providing teachers with a cheap, reasonably simple intervention that can be used in a variety of school situations and across all grade levels.

A 2019 study, for example, was designed to help ease the transition into middle school by reminding students that the anxiety they felt was both natural and common. New students read stories from peers who had already graduated to the next grades; the essays confided the private fears and doubts the students harbored, and how building positive relationships with friends and teachers helped them cope.

The new students then completed two 15-minute writing exercises that asked them to reflect on their own anxieties about the upcoming school year, particularly around test-taking, and to consider reasons why they might do well even if they worried about the tests. The exercise had a surprisingly powerful effect: Compared with their peers, students who learned about the commonality of their fears and then wrote about them were 34 percent less likely to be disciplined for misbehavior, 12 percent more likely to attend school, and 18 percent less likely to receive a failing grade.

And in a study published last year, students participated in a 10-minute exercise immediately before a test in which they were encouraged to see stress as "a beneficial and energizing force." They learned that small amounts of stress can help sharpen focus and aid memory by increasing oxygen flow into the brain. Students were then asked to write responses to two questions: "How do people sometimes feel in important situations?" and "How can the way a person feels in important situations help them do well in those situations?" The writing exercise helped the students manage the "worried thoughts about the possibility of failure" that often accompany a test, reducing the number of students failing out of the course by half-with low-income students seeing the biggest benefits.

Taken as a whole, the research suggests that academic performance not only relies on content preparation-you have to know fractions to succeed on some math tests-but also is significantly impacted by emotional and psychological preparation. Helping your students identify and circumvent the psychological barriers that hinder progress is part of teaching them how to navigate the emotional terrain of learning.

These powerful techniques appear to work even when students reflect altruistically. A 2019 study coauthored by Angela Duckworth, known for her research on grit and perseverance, asked nearly 2,000 high school students to give motivational advice to an anonymous younger student-on how to stop procrastinating or study better, for example-and then write a brief, encouraging letter to help the student do better in school. Despite the fact that the advice was given to someone else, the students earned higher grades in their own courses.

The takeaway: Be mindful of anxiety-provoking situations-from high-stakes tests to major in-school transitions-that can derail a student's ability to focus. Try brief metacognitive discussions or simple writing exercises to help students overcome hurdles, recognize the commonality of their fears, and prepare emotionally and psychologically for looming challenges.

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Simple Metacognitive Strategies to Help Anxious Learners Succeed

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"I think I can. I think I can. I think I can," says the Little Blue Engine to herself as she hauls a train full of toys up a mountain. In Watty Piper's classic children's book, all it takes is a dose of self-encouragement to give the engine the strength to overcome a seemingly impossible task.

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Some great opportunities

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Mo Willems, Gene Luen Yang, Amie Kaufman and other authors for young readers are reading their work online and offering drawing tutorials, to help fill our strange new hours.

The author and illustrator Mo Willems began hosting sessions on YouTube on Monday. "There's nothing more fun than doodling with a friend," he said. Credit... via Mo Willems

School closings are a drastic change for kids at this challenging time, and children's authors - whose normal routines are also disrupted - are finding ways to reach their readers in different ways. Dozens of book festivals, tours and events have been canceled as a result of the coronavirus pandemic, and some writers are turning to social media to engage with their fans, offering readings of their books, art classes and other activities to keep them entertained. Here's what they're doing.

When Gene Luen Yang's tour for his new graphic novel, "Dragon Hoops," was canceled as a result of the coronavirus outbreak, "I felt disheartened and helpless," he said. In lieu of an in-person tour, he held a Facebook Live session to discuss the book. He's also "touring as a cartoon" on his Instagram page, where he will take reader questions and respond in a comic strip. As a former teacher, Yang said, he has a "special place in my heart for all the parents who are now unexpectedly home schooling their kids," and will be working with his publisher to develop resources to help them with this "monumental task."

The science fiction and fantasy writer Amie Kaufman (The Illuminae Files series, "Aurora Rising") has been throwing online launch parties for writers whose book-promotion plans have been upended. "Many of them have had long-dreamed-of events canceled, which is the right thing to do, but so very hard," Kaufman said in an email. "There's a fear that among so much bad news, their books will simply be lost."

For the next few weeks (and perhaps even longer), on Monday nights, Kaufman is boosting the work of several authors, encouraging people to buy their new books and hosting virtual conversations using the hashtag #kidlitgoesviral. Dozens of writers have signed up to participate, with teachers, librarians, parents and readers joining to ask questions. "So many independent bookstores are under pressure," Kaufman said, "and it's scary to think they might not be there on the other side of this experience."

Grace Lin, an illustrator and author of middle-grade novels and picture books, is posting drawing tutorials and readings from her books on her YouTube channel. She's taught viewers how to draw a Chinese dragon and a dog starting from the numeral 5, and has read from "Mulan: Before the Sword," an original prequel to the upcoming live-action film, and "Ling & Ting: Not Exactly the Same," about twin sisters trying to distinguish themselves from each other.

Lin said she began the reading series in part to fight the "anti-Asian rhetoric" that has come up amid coronavirus fears. "I've felt the need to show kids positive representations of Asian-Americans and Asian culture," she said. "I hope Asian kids see me and feel a little less alone, and non-Asian kids see me and a part of their brain registers that people who look like me are not the enemy."

Lin has also started a podcast, Kids Ask Authors, which was in the works before the pandemic struck, in which children's authors answer questions from readers about their books and creative process.

The author and illustrator Mo Willems is inviting kids to draw with him every day for "Lunch Doodles." In the first couple of sessions, which are hosted on YouTube and started on Monday, he walked viewers through his process, gave them a tour of his studio, answered questions and drew whimsical creatures or created simple animations for them to try at home. "I'm really looking forward to it," he said in one video, "because there's nothing more fun than doodling with a friend."

Mac Barnett, who's written dozens of books, including the Jack Book and Mac B. Kid Spy series, is reading a book every afternoon on Instagram Live. The writer, who often collaborates with the illustrator Jon Klassen, has read "Extra Yarn," about a girl who changes her community with a magical box of never-ending yarn, and "Billy Twitters and His Blue Whale Problem," about a boy who gets a blue whale as a pet.

"We are all at home, but none of us are alone," Oliver Jeffers recently wrote on his website. "Let's be bored together."

Jeffers ("The Day the Crayons Quit," "How to Catch a Star," "The Fate of Fausto,") is reading on Instagram Live on weekday afternoons and making all the recordings available on his site.

Vashti Harrison will share drawing tutorials and worksheets on Instagram inspired by her Little Leaders, Little Dreamers and Little Legends books, which highlight influential black men and women in United States history, including Alvin Ailey and Michelle Obama. She created a highlights reel on her page called "Quarantine Fun!" and plans to share sessions on themes such as "How to draw your own Little Leader."

Jarrett J. Krosoczka, best known for his Lunch Lady series of graphic novels, is hosting drawing sessions on his YouTube channel every day. He's been teaching basic illustration techniques, like how to draw a face and its expressions, but also often shares anecdotes about growing up as a kid who loved to draw.

The writer and illustrator, whose tour for his most recent picture book, "Be You," was canceled, is reading aloud from his work on Facebook Live every day. So far, he's read "The Word Collector," "The Dot" and "Ish," his sequel to "The Dot."

The illustrator Carson Ellis ("Home," "Du Iz Tak?") is running a Quarantine Art Club for her followers. She posts prompts - such as "is a cat," "wearing glasses" and "holding a golden scepter" - and encourages readers to create their own art in response. She shares some of the results using the hashtag #QuarantineArtClub, and features some on her website, too.

The "Authors Everywhere!" YouTube channel, started by Susan Tan, who wrote the Cilla Lee-Jenkins series for middle-grade readers, includes activities, writing workshops and readings from a range of authors. In addition to keeping kids busy, the workshops are also meant to give young people an emotional outlet for addressing their fears about the pandemic.

Susan Verde, who wrote the picture books "I Am Love" and "I Am Human," among others, is reading from her books live on Instagram. She is also starting a channel for kid-friendly meditations and mantras.

In response to the dozens of canceled books festivals, three young adult writers decided to start the Everywhere Book Fest, "a virtual gathering of kid-lit authors, books and readers that will bring the book festival experience to everyone," according to their website. The festival is the brainchild of Ellen Oh, who also co-founded the nonprofit We Need Diverse Books, and Christina Soontornvat and Melanie Conklin. "There's a real opportunity here to change the way people connect with authors and interact with books," Conklin told Publishers Weekly.

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Home With Your Kids? Writers Want to Help

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Mo Willems, Gene Luen Yang, Amie Kaufman and other authors for young readers are reading their work online and offering drawing tutorials, to help fill our strange new hours. School closings are a drastic change for kids at this challenging time, and children's authors - whose normal routines are also disrupted - are finding ways to reach their readers in different ways.

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For the Family

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Keep moving

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Try something new

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It is not just about drinking water

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Before we dive into how you can stay hydrated, let's start with the basics.

How Much Fluid Do You Need?

According to the CDC, daily fluid intake is defined as the amount of water consumed from foods, plain drinking water, and other beverages. 1 Similar to other health guidelines, how much hydration you need depends on a number of different factors. Age, gender, weight, climate you are in, activity levels, and overall health all influence your individual needs.

Whether you're pedaling uphill in a spin class or going for a trail run, any activity that makes you break a sweat means you need to bump up the water intake. Why? Sweat is made almost completely of water, and it's important to replace any of the fluids you are losing during your workout.

Similarly, the environment you are in plays an important part in your hydration needs.

Hot or humid weather can make you sweat more than usual, and requires additional hydration to make up for lost fluids.

Heading to the mountains? You'll want to keep an eye on your hydration there, too. Two things happen at high altitudes: lower humidity and lower oxygen levels. At higher altitudes, humidity is lower than at sea level, causing sweat to evaporate quicker and your body to work harder to breathe because of the lower oxygen levels. When oxygen levels are lower, your body reacts by breathing in and out faster and more deeply, causing you to lose water through respiration.

Your overall health plays a role, as well. If you're not feeling well and have a fever, are vomiting or have diarrhea, your body is losing fluids faster than normal. Same goes if you are pregnant or breast-feeding. Think about it, you're providing hydration not only for you, but for your baby, as well. However, it's important to discuss your hydration needs with your doctor as certain health conditions may require specialized fluid monitoring.

All other factors aside, men should aim for about 125 ounces of fluid per day and women should shoot for about 90 ounces. That sounds like a lot, right? Pause the panic. According to The National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine, roughly 80 percent of our water intake comes from fluids, while the other 20 percent comes from the foods we eat. 2 And don't forget to talk to your doctor before making any dietary changes that can impact individual health conditions or medications you may be taking.

If drinking water isn't your jam, here are 7 ways you can stay hydrated.

Hydration Helpers

1. Start your day with oatmeal. This one is a classic. Not only is it hearty and filling, oatmeal is also very hydrating. When oats are cooking, they expand and absorb the water or milk they're being paired with. Not into warm breakfasts when it's hot out? Try overnight oats. Served cold, overnight oats pack all the benefits of hot oatmeal with no heat. As an added boost, sprinkle chia seeds in your overnight oats when preparing, which soak up 10 times their weight in extra liquid and keep you full all morning.

2. Include more moo. According to a study by McMaster University, milk is more hydrating than water or sports drinks due to its source of protein, carbohydrates, calcium, and electrolytes. 3 Bring it on!

3. Try carb alternatives. When it comes to meal planning, ditch dry, carb heavy staples like pasta. Opt for zucchini noodles, or zoodles for short, which can contain about 95 percent water. When paired with a tomato sauce, which usually has about 90 percent water, this meal can pack a hydrating and healthy punch.

4. Sip smoothies. Between the yogurt and all the fresh fruit, smoothies are a great, and tasty, way to stay hydrated. Not sure what fruits and vegetables to pick? Strawberries, peaches, cucumbers, spinach, and blueberries are all excellent options.

5. Pack your plate with vegetables. Much like smoothies, salads are a great way to give you a hydrating boost. Most lettuce greens contain at least 94 percent water, and that's before you add any other vegetables. Next time you whip up a salad, include celery, tomatoes, bell peppers, and carrots.

6. Slurp soup. When the craving strikes for a filling and hydrating meal, look no further than broth-based soups or gazpacho. Served cold, gazpacho won't make you break a sweat come summer. Blend cucumbers, bell peppers, tomatoes, onions, and garlic cloves for this satisfying soup.

7. Freeze your fruit. Feeling nostalgic about the popsicles you used to enjoy as a child? Bring back this classic treat as a delicious way to rehydrate. Blend a hydrating ingredient like watermelon and fill Popsicle molds and freeze for 1 hour.

With these 7 ways, you'll be well on your way to happy hydrating!

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7 Ways to Stay Hydrated (That Don't Involve Drinking Water)

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Before we dive into how you can stay hydrated, let's start with the basics. According to the CDC, daily fluid intake is defined as the amount of water consumed from foods, plain drinking water, and other beverages. 1 Similar to other health guidelines, how much hydration you need depends on a number of different factors.

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A good read!

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They must be terrified their children will be unable to keep up as moms and dads with more flexibility, more security, or even full-time help talk about their aggressive at-home enrichment agendas for their little ones. Maybe this is the perfect time to call a timeout on the academic rat-race that was never healthy or fair in the first place.

Yes, we have embraced the need for some schedule, taking turns keeping an eye on the kids as they surf the internet to make sure whatever they are looking at is age-appropriate. (Of course, one of the boys wanted to learn about bombs.)

So far, we've seen them digging into mastodons, dwarf planets, the Mars rover and who made Legos and why. They've been reading a lot (mostly graphic novels and "Big Nate" books) because my kids were always avid readers and I don't have to fight with them to do it. But there are no flash cards and no made-up projects to "enrich" them. We do not assign them essays or ensure their explorations are aligned with Common Core standards. There is no official "movement" or music time. We have not set up a makeshift classroom or given our family's "school" a name.

We bake and have taste tests to see which cookie recipes are the best, because we like cookies and they are among the few things I know how to make. We walk and walk and walk. We eat together. We think about how lucky we are and try to help those who are more vulnerable and without our resources.

So far, the boys have played more video games and watched more television than they did during any given week before schools shut down. It keeps them busy while their dad and I try to finish our meetings before Zoom crashes.

We love each other, we yell, we apologize, we laugh, they punch each other, we yell some more, we make up. We live, we try to be compassionate and we hope this will all be a memory soon. And when it's over, the schoolwork will be there.

Jennie Weiner (@jennieweiner) is an associate professor of educational leadership at the University of Connecticut.
The Times is committed to publishing a diversity of letters to the editor. We'd like to hear what you think about this or any of our articles. Here are some . And here's our email: letters@nytimes.com.

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Opinion | I Refuse to Run a Coronavirus Home School

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They must be terrified their children will be unable to keep up as moms and dads with more flexibility, more security, or even full-time help talk about their aggressive at-home enrichment agendas for their little ones. Maybe this is the perfect time to call a timeout on the academic rat-race that was never healthy or fair in the first place.

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Do2Learn began in 1996 through a National Institutes of Health Small Business Innovative Research grant. Our team searches out the most talented and creative teachers and clinicians across the world. These gifted individuals work with our technical experts to transfer their knowledge into formats that we can make available to you.
Since beginning, we have grown into a world-wide resource with over 11 million hits a month. While based in North Carolina, approximately half of our users are from outside of the U.S. Thousands of sites link to us and we can be easily found on most search engines using topics such as 'picture cards', 'facial expressions', and 'job tips'. We hope you find our resources helpful and pass on our link to others.
We believe that simply telling busy teachers, parents, and professionals what they should be doing is not enough. If we explain how to devise a visual communication system using picture cards, we provide free cards to get you started.

When we present the Teacher Toolbox on how to adapt a classroom for children with special needs, we provide resources for behavior management plans, literacy tools, and the materials to create everything in your classroom.

Our approach is to use the latest technology and expert guidance to create innovative and usable solutions.

Learn about DiagnoseFirst, our newest project to help teachers and clinicians recognize the symptoms of ASD.

Pre-employment screening assessments are online or paper tests that some companies require applicants to complete during the application process. Read more about JobTIPS Student Version!

JobTIPS Toolbox PRO is filled with resources to help you coach your students through the challenges of assessing their skills, finding and applying for jobs, and practicing the social skills needed to do well in the workplace.

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picture exchange communication system cards

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Do2Learn: Educational Resources for Special Needs

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picture communication cards, songs, games and learning activities for autism, aspergers, fetal alcohol syndrome and disabilities

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Special Education & the Arts

[ What I Need to Know | Classroom Management | Lesson Advice

Instructional Strategies | ADD/ADHD | Visual Impairment | ESL ]
This page was started as a result of Gail's Getty TeacherArtExchange List post - March 2004. From Gail:
I will be teaching art to 6 classes of special needs students from ages 3-21. Most of these students have multiple handicaps and most come in with an aide for one on one or one aide per three students. Any ideas?
From Sidnie Miller:
Our special needs kids do really well with clay.Â Depending on their level--some just come in and pound on it -- their aids help them to build projects--some can't build, but can paint on glazes.Â For some, just being with regular kids and acting appropriately is the goal, so what they do is secondary to being there.Â Weaving is a good activity if they can do it.
From Sandra Barrick:
This is a wide range but doable and don't be intimidated by their handicaps. Most if not all want to be independent and do things on their own. They are a very determined group as a whole. Last year I worked with deaf children 3-11. A few had other disabilities as well, learning disorders and rare skin diseases (where the fingers were just little nubs and the child actually would bleed and blister if touched or from his own clothes. I also had a special needs child who had a rare form of dwarfism. Besides their disabilities you will be amazed by their spirit and the more severe the handicap the more chances and independence they may want. I also worked for (HC) MRDD, which is the division for our special needs kids, the age was 3-21. Through MRDD, I came in contact with severely handicapped and they really couldn't do anything but lay and look. The most severe had aids but also mentally were no older than a 3 -6 month old. Definitely get catalogs for supplies.Â If you come in contact with their caretaker/parent ask then what their interests are and if they have any supplies they could keep there. I am not sure how large your class will be but the child I had who didn't not have fingers had his own supply box, all of them did but his had scissors for his hands and crayons which had knobs on the end, etc. I also did a lot of sensory material/lessons with them for fine motor. Coming from Montessori - the punching tools and exercises really helped them. - Sandra
From Maggie White:
Concentrate on what the students CAN do, not on what they can't. Don't accept at face value what their teachers or aides tell you the students can't do; they will always surprise you and especially the people who think they know the kids so well. Don't hesitate to give the students something more challenging. Read the book Exceptional Children, Exceptional Art (from Davis). It provides a lot of insight into the physical, psychological, and emotional needs of a range of disabilities and ages. You can adapt a lot of classroom tools like pencils or brushes by using large foam curlers or the sponge-like foam (not the Styrofoam) that cushions computers and such. You can saw it with a hacksaw blade so it fits their hands comfortably. Stencils work better if they're tracing around the INSIDE of the stencil, rather than the outside. It seems they have a harder time keeping their pencils up against the outside edge rather than the inner edge. Shapes cut from sponges make neat stamps. Also weather stripping foam, which is sticky on one side, can be cut into shapes and stuck to film canisters to make an easy-to-grip stamp.
From Judy Potter:
Checkout at this site as a resource, http://www.wiu.edu/thecenter/art/
From Sue Freeland:
Here are some ideas off the top of my head... Clay projects.. The tactile feel of the clay might be good for dexterity. Model magic... create an animal, blend clays to create new colors. Read them a story then draw the ending or their favorite part. Give them shapes & pieces of stuff (whatever) to glue down in a pattern or face or whatever. With Kinders, I took a large sheet of yellow paper and cut a hole in the top to represent the window on a bus, the kids colored their self portraits and I taped them in the window. All the yellow papers side by side made up the bus. Also a good one is printing in shaving cream or pudding if you think they may eat it. Shaving cream is loved by all, even High school and leaves my counters and tables very clean! I used to teach Autistic kids but they were very low functioning.
From Betty Bowen:
My special needs campers love the beads you make designs with and iron into a solid form - now they come in larger sizes, too. They really loved the camp spin-art machine. I found their bead-stringing patience to be inspiring. They also enjoyed making decorations for their wheelchairs or walkers, like foam-core flames or sparkley things to go on the wheels.

In response to an Art Education List post asking for high school lesson ideas
From Kathy Douglas:
I would not bother too much with themes and subjects... leave that to them.Â When you look at Outsider Art, sometimes made by artists in this population, it is raw, personal and sometimes amazing.

If your students are not tactile defensive they might enjoy using plaster gauze over an armature of half a gallon spring water jug to create masks.Â You can help them create great 3D effects and then they can use their paint knowledge to add color.Â Also beads, feathers, etc for decoration.Â I would have examples of Mardi Gras, theater and cultural masks.Â What they often have in common is exaggeration of features. They could also choose animal masks.Â But I would let them decide what sort of mask they want to make, from a list of options.

I have had some younger students on the Autism spectrum who were very uncomfortable touching certain wet things... if that is the case in your class I would strongly suggest an alternate project available, so that they can find their comfort level. And one of my students overcame his discomfort when he saw his friends using the plaster.Â Because he was able to decide when he was ready to use it, he felt in control and was proud of himself when it was done.
From Terri Noell:
I teach at a Special Needs Magnet school... With the Autistic students, I find that adding scents and textures to the paint will very much interest these students... I have some students that touch and feel everything and some that taste everything so these were very exciting for them... I use finger cover tip brushes with my younger students since a lot of them have trouble holding paint brushes effectively... also great for other students with coordination issues... I would advise a lot of lessons that effect their other senses besides just the 2-D art...
From Sandy:
I teach in aÂ magnet school for Cognitively Impaired kids, pre-school toÂ 6th grade. I have foundÂ that theseÂ kids areÂ often fabulous painters.Â I do limit all black & brownÂ paint though!Â More abstract workÂ seemsÂ toÂ workÂ best for most of them. PrintmakingÂ works well,Â perhaps withÂ pre-cut stamps,Â StyrofoamÂ orÂ found objects, at least something that they don't have to cut themselves. 3D constructionsÂ are great,Â and what I offerÂ may be more suitable forÂ Elementary. ButÂ weÂ useÂ clay,Â wood scraps,Â cardboard,Â (tubes & flat pieces).Â Old puzzle piecesÂ for jewelry, etc.Â I doÂ papier macheÂ sculpture or masks etc with them even thoughÂ some are tactile defensive and hate to touch theÂ paste. I offerÂ plastic glovesÂ if they need them. We'veÂ done basic weavings, &Â simple sewingÂ withÂ big needles. Some of the kidsÂ love to draw, othersÂ not, but it is good toÂ let themÂ tryÂ and theyÂ tell great stories about theirÂ work! This is the first yearÂ that I haveÂ tried aÂ TAB (Teaching for Artistic Behavior - Choice Based) approach with these kids and it has beenÂ wonderfullyÂ successful. The kids just love it.

See Resources compiled by Bernie Poole and Yvonne Singer [Archive]
Includes resources for elementary and secondary education.

Sax Arts and Crafts Catalog has a section for special needs students and has a separate catalog available. Adaptive Product index is on page 588 in the main catalog. 1-800-588-6696.

From Pam Whisenhunt - Working with LD Students
Lesson Plans:
Lesson Plan tips for LD Students - from Pam Whisenhunt
P. Buckley Moss Foundation lessons [Archive] "For Special Learners: Growing Through the Arts" P. Buckley Moss Foundation Find out more about P. Buckley Moss

Art for Children and Adults with Disabilities:
http://www.kinderart.com/special/
Some Helpful Links: IAD's Special Education page
Great Ideas for Special Artists - for clay, drawing and painting (Archive)
Easy to follow directions for clay bowl and other clay projects.
Special Needs Supplies from Dick Blick

Links for children with Autism:
http://www.lessontutor.com/autismgenhome.html

Activities for Teaching About Disabilities:
http://www.educationworld.com/a_lesson/lesson115.shtml

Keystone Arts Education Network ( home page)
http://www.keyarts.ws/content/view/18/156/ [Archive]

Special Education - Disability Links:
http://www.teach-nology.com/teachers/special_ed/disabilities/

Special Education Links:
http://www.teach-nology.com/teachers/special_ed/

Teaching Art to Students With Special Needs - page by Sara Green
http://www.saragreen.net/mh.html

National Arts and Disability Center:
http://nadc.ucla.edu/
ArtExpress - Lessons Adaptable to children with disabilities:
http://www.harcourtschool.com/menus/art_express.html

Adapting Art Materials for Children with Disabilities:

http://www.wiu.edu/users/mfkls1/artexpress/adaptat.html

Special Education and the Arts
http://www.southernct.edu/~gerber/SEDarts/index.htm [Archive]
On this site is an extensive list of resources:
http://www.southernct.edu/~gerber/SEDarts/SEDArts%20References.htm [Archive]

Organizations:
http://www.southernct.edu/~gerber/SEDarts/SEDArtsOrganizations.htm [Archive]
Teaching Art Safely to the Disabled
VSA arts:

http://www.vsarts.org/

Teaching Special Needs Kids - Online Resources from Education World:
http://www.education-world.com/a_curr/curr139.shtml

Arts & Activities article: Making art activities work for students with special needs by Anne Vize (Archive)

Creativity Explored - nonprofit visual arts center where artists with developmental disabilities create, exhibit, and sell art.
Artists with Disabilities
Dan Keplinger - He calls himself King Gimp. Visit the Virtual Gallery and be awed.

Brett Eastburn - He was my art student when he was in 4th grade. He is now a motivational speaker.

Books:
Exceptional Children: Exceptional Art : Teaching Art to Special Needs
by Authors: David R. Henle y
The Power of the Arts: Creative Strategies for Teaching Exceptional Learners
By Sally L. Smith

Flag House is an organization and a catalog for activities and supplies for disabled student/people.
http://www.flaghouse.com
Another resource

http://www.enablingdevices.com/
CATALOGS FOR EDUCATORS of the disabled:
Flag House

800-793-7900

Greystone Educational Materials

1-800-733-0671

P.O Box 86

Scandia, MN 55073

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Working with Special Needs Students in Art

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On this page are teacher ideas for working with students with special needs. Our special needs kids do really well with clay.Â Depending on their level, some just come in and pound on it. Their aids help them to build projects.

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Browse by grade

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PBS LearningMedia | Teaching Resources For Students And Teachers

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Inspire your students with thousands of free teaching resources including videos, lesson plans, and games aligned to state and national standards.

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Learn English and listen to English with podcasts in English

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The podcast site for people to learn and teach English

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Kahn Academy
Kahn Academy

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Math Games
Math Games
Hands-on Math Activities
Hands-on Math Activities
Nrich Math Activities
Nrich Math Activities
PBS Kids
PBS Kids
Fun Brain
Fun Brain
Math Games
Math Games
Prodigy
Prodigy
Mash Up Math
Mash Up Math

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Our doors are temporarily closed, but we're still here! Join us for live presentations, new videos, and activities to try from home. Learn more about our green moray eels Thomas and Marilyn. At-Home Projects and Activities: See what you notice when you spend five minutes or more studying one exhibit closely.

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Exemplar site

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Franklin Public Schools schools a nd all school-related activities will be closed from

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Planning for School Closings

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These 12 Famous Museums Offer Virtual Tours You Can Take on Your Couch

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Google teamed up with more than 1,200 museums and galleries around the world to bring anyone and everyone virtual tours and online exhibits of some of the most famous museums around the world.

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Exemplar site

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3.26.2020Added National Emergency Library link on the digital resources page.

3.25.2020Added Design Squad Nation from PBS Learning Media on the additional activities page.
Added The 10 Best Educationl YouTube Channels for Kids on the additional activities page.
Added Tools to Create an Active Home link on the Wellness page under curriculum.
Added Everfi link and registration information on the digital resources page.

3.24.2020Added Time for Kids link on the additional activities page.
Added Oceans Initiative Virtual Marine Biology camp link to additional activities page.
Added Free Tech for Learning to the additional activities page.

3.23.2020Added additional learning links to the Little Lancers Preschool page.
Added a Preschool Corona Virus social story presentation to the Little Lancers Preschool page.
Added Free Online Activities Kids Can Do At Home link to the additional activities page.

3.22.2020 Added Kids workouts to do at home on wellness page.
Added Play to Learn preschool Facebook group link on Little Lancers page.
Added new Virtual Tours page under curriculum topics.
Added 26 Best Podcasts for Kids on additional activities page.
Added 450 online courses you can take for free on high school and additional resources pages.

3.21.2020Added Hogwarts Digital Escape Room on additional activities page.
Added the NPS Shares page which allows staff and students to record a short video message for the NPS community.

3.20.2020 Added Family Guides to the Massachusetts Curriculum Standards on digital resources page.
Fixed incorrect link on WGBH icon on digital resources page.
Added information to the main page regarding free access to Xfinity hotspots and Comcast Internet Essentials program.

3.19.2020Added link to free audiobooks from Audible on digital resources page.
Added genius hour project on family projects page.
Added WGBH link on digital resources page.
Improved navigation by adding collapsible text on multiple pages.
Added wellness page under curriculum topics.
Added Elementary, Middle School, and High School resources from MA School Administrators' Association under curriculum topics.
Added Ideas for fun, meaningful, & generally pixel free at home learning sheet on additional activities page.
Added various new resource links on additional activities page.
Added 30 day Lego challenge guide on additional activities page.
Added home learning choice boards on K-2 learning activities page (under curriculum topics).

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3.26.2020Added National Emergency Library link on the digital resources page. 3.25.2020Added Design Squad Nation from PBS Learning Media on the additional activities page. Added The 10 Best Educationl YouTube Channels for Kids on the additional activities page. Added Tools to Create an Active Home link on the Wellness page under curriculum.

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When Carla brings weird sandwiches to school, her classmates have plenty to say about them. "That's sick!" says Leslie. "That's disgusting!" says Natie. But Carla thinks otherwise. "It's unique. It's creative." Just like Carla. Although she is teased and even ignored by her classmates, Carla's strong inner sense of uniqueness eventually wins them over. Wacky sandwiches, wacky illustrations and kid-true dialogue make this book's message of acceptance, tolerance and the importance of individuality extremely palatable. And who knows? Carla's Sandwich may even help parents with that ever present dilemma - what to pack for school lunch!

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'Carla's Sandwich' read by Allison Janney

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When Carla brings weird sandwiches to school, her classmates have plenty to say about them. "That's sick!" says Leslie. "That's disgusting!" says Natie. But Carla thinks otherwise."It's unique. It's creative." Just like Carla.

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Math Education Teacher Resources Common Core Cool Video Lesson Free Worksheets Elementary Middle High School Homeschool Algebra Geometry Lessons Help Tutor Homework

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Programming for kids, made with love. Easy to follow lessons focused on student outcomes so you can teach your students to code.

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Support for Smithsonian's History Explorer is provided by the Verizon Foundation

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Raise a reader by getting the best book recommendations, reading tips, and discounts delivered straight to your inbox.

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Meaningful learning can happen anywhere. Set up a secure remote/distance learning environment when emergencies like COVID-19 cause school closure. We're here to help with resources to support effective remote/distance learning experiences for students, teachers, and families.

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Peter H. Reynolds, Dedham, MA. 26,444 likes · 538 talking about this. Author & Illustrator of The Dot, Ish, The North Star & illustrator of The Judy Moody series, Someday, & The Museum. Also founder...

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Ken Burns in the Classroom | PBS LearningMedia

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Ken Burns and his collaborators have been creating historical documentary films for more than forty years. Known for a signature style that brings primary source documents, images, and archival video footage to life on screen, these films present the opportunity to pose thought-provoking questions for students, and introduce new ideas, perspectives, and primary sources.

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Here's how nearly one million teachers use Prodigy in the classroom at no cost!

Help students master math standards with a fun and engaging gameplay experience

Adjust and align Prodigy's in-game math content with your lesson plans

Track student development to decide where to best spend your time

No trial period, no hidden costs for educators. Our optional parent memberships ensure Prodigy stays free for all teachers.

Prodigy for Teachers

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Here's how nearly one million teachers use Prodigy in the classroom at no cost! Help students master math standards with a fun and engaging gameplay experience Adjust and align Prodigy's in-game math content with your lesson plans Track student development to decide where to best spend your time No trial period, no hidden costs for educators.

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Math Games, Math Worksheets and Practice Quizzes

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Math games online that practice math skills using fun interactive content. Over 1000 free skill testing apps and games - tablet and chromebook friendly.

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Information and resources for teachers and parents

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Learn about math and play games with your favorite characters like Odd Squad, Curious George, Peg + Cat, and Dinosaur Train!

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Music is for everyone. Play with simple experiments that let anyone, of any age, explore how music works.

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BrainPOP - Animated Educational Site for Kids - Science, Social Studies, English, Math, Arts & Music, Health, and Technology

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IXL | Math, Language Arts, Science, Social Studies, and Spanish

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IXL is the world's most popular subscription-based learning site for K-12. Used by over 8,000,000 students, IXL provides personalized learning in more than 8,000 topics, covering math, language arts, science, social studies, and Spanish. Interactive questions, awards, and certificates keep kids motivated as they master skills.

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Thirty-One Educators Connecting Students and Books

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Grace Lin and Laurie Keller answer this wonderful kid question: "If you were to become a character in your book, which would it be and why?"

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Hi Friends, I have been away from this space for some time, but I will be back beginning September 2021. While I adored being a classroom teacher, I also missed writing and teaching from here. I am no longer in the classroom, but instead you will find me here and at The Poem Farm. If you are interested in sharing your notebook, please just let me know. See you soon! xo, Amy

I know that some of you are home from school these days, and I hope you will find some new notebooking ideas here. I love keeping a notebook for writing, for drawing, for making a place for ideas and dreams and wishes and facts and feelings. This blog is home to many peeks into others' notebooks, and in each post you will find photos, notebooking-thoughts, and an idea to try. Feel free to poke around, notebook by your side, and explore your own brain and heart. Sometimes we don't know what we really think until we write. If you like writing poetry, feel free to visit my other site, full of poem writing ideas - www.poemfarm.amylv.com xxxx, Amy

Readers - if you or one of your students or friends keeps a notebook and would like to share in this space, please send an e-mail to amy at amylv dot com. I welcome your contributions and will send you the post specs for this blog.

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Hi Friends, I have been away from this space for some time, but I will be back beginning September 2021. While I adored being a classroom teacher, I also missed writing and teaching from here. I am no longer in the classroom, but instead you will find me here and at The Poem Farm.

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Free art lessons, design lessons, and art appreciation for all.

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Artyfactory offers Free Art Lessons, Design Lessons and Art Appreciation for art teachers, art students and artists of all ages.

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National Gallery of Arts

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Discover the world of art in a fun and easy way. Explore and learn about some of the most famous works from the Gallery's collection, make your own art, and share it with friends. The NGAkids Art Zone app for iPad lets you explore your inner artist.

Description

The NGAkids Art Zone app has eight interactive activities inspired by works in the collection of the National Gallery of Art, plus a sketchbook for freehand drawing and a personal exhibition space where users can save and display art created with the program. The child-friendly interface, easy-to-use tools, and the overarching emphasis on discovery, careful looking, and artistic self-expression make the NGAkids app educational and fun for the whole family.

NGAkids activities are designed for children to use-unassisted-in a recreational, nonacademic context. They are not art lessons, although our programs are extremely popular in schools and are often used as an adjunct to the traditional curriculum. The low-key activities preserve a sense of quiet exploration that encourages artistic expression and creativity. This absorbing, self-directed interaction has a long-term impact. The fact that children are encouraged to figure out how things work and to mentor each other adds a unique dimension to the experience, one that sparks a personal connection to art that often lasts a lifetime.

If you share artistic creations made with our app on social media, please be sure to include the hashtag #ngakids. We look forward to seeing what you make!

Don't have an iPad? Email [email protected] for the PC version of these interactives.

Special Features

The NGAkids app provides an immersive experience as children visit a virtual art museum and explore a variety of works spanning more than 300 years of art history. High-resolution graphics, careful attention to detail, and exposure to a variety of subjects, painting styles, and techniques help convey an authentic understanding of the artistic process and reinforce their familiarity with the fundamental elements of art. Although not games in the traditional sense, unexpected animation and audio features enliven the programs and help make learning fun.

There are 10 sections to explore:

* Portrait
* Landscape
* Seascape
* Still Life
* Action Painting
* Exploring Color
* Color Field
* Collage
* Sketchbook
* My Art Gallery

Works of art by a wide range of artists-including Edward Hicks, Fitz Henry Lane, Berthe Morisot, Claude Monet, Vincent van Gogh, Mark Rothko, Josef Albers, and Robert Rauschenberg, along with several anonymous American naive painters-serve as inspirational models.

The National Gallery of Art is committed to producing quality children's programming that provides informative, entertaining, and age-appropriate content for kids of all ages. We hope you and your children enjoy the NGAkids app, and we invite you to plan an in-person visit to the Gallery, where many of the original works of art that inspired this program are on display.

NGAkids is supported in part by a generous grant from the Ruth S. Willoughby Foundation. Apple, the Apple logo, and iPad are trademarks of Apple Inc., registered in the U.S. and other countries. App Store is a service mark of Apple Inc.
Additional Resources

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Discover the world of art in a fun and easy way. Explore and learn about some of the most famous works from the Gallery's collection, make your own art, and share it with friends. The NGAkids Art Zone app for iPad lets you explore your inner artist.

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We're Here For You

There is a lot that's happening right now and it can be a very stressful and confusing time. With schools closing for extended periods of time, we want you to know that we are here to support you as best as we can. Get Your Teach On is one of the nations's premiere professional development organizations for teachers and school administrators. Hope & Wade King, along with members of our incredible team, have compiled a collection of FREE resources from our various partners and presenters. Our partners and presenters are offering these completely free to support parents, educators, and students during this challenging time.

We ask that you please share this page as there are many resources available to help keep students learning and engaged. We encourage you to take care of yourselves, your family, and be cautious. We plan to update this page as often as possible.

Upcoming Live Streams

We're excited to be bring you free live streams for teachers, parents, and students! There will be live streams at least five days a week to help keep you and your kids engaged and active!

Free Resources From Our Partners

We are proud to work with these companies, and thank them for providing these resources to parents, teachers, and students.

Free Resources From GYTO Presenters

We are working with our network of Get Your Teach On presenters to collect additional free resources for parents, teachers, and students. Our presenters are some of the most highly respected educators in the country, and their free resources will help keep kids engaged and learning throughout the school closures. We will be consistently updating this page as more resources become available!

More Free Resources From Other Great Companies

The companies listed below are offering additional great, free resources to parents, teachers, and students. While as a Get Your Teach On attendee you might have heard our presenters reference some of these companies before, we do not have any affiliation with them. We are simply sharing what they are doing to help our community.

Free Internet Access

Comcast and Charter/Spectrum have announced free internet access for 60 days to low income families to help children stay connected for online learning. Broadband internet access is essential to ensuring students are able to learn remotely during school closures.

GYTO University on April 9-10th in Nashville has been rescheduled to July 23-24. All other GYTO events this summer and beyond will proceed as scheduled.

March 14, 2020 - 10:30am EST
After extensive discussions with the Gaylord Opryland Resort, we can announce that the GYTO University conference scheduled for April 9-10 in Nashville, TN, has been rescheduled to July 23-24, 2020.
The safety and well-being of our attendees, Magic Squad, and presenters is our primary concern. We did not make this decision lightly, but feel it is the best path forward based on the current recommendations of the Nashville Health Department and other government agencies.

All GYTO University attendees will be contacted via email on Monday, March 16th. Attendees can email our attendee support team at [email protected] with any questions you may have.
All other 2020 conferences (including the National Conference, Next Level, Chicago, and LEAD On events) will proceed as scheduled. We do not have any plans to cancel or postpone any other event at this time.
Thank you for your continued support of Get Your Teach On, and we look forward to welcoming you to events in 2020 and beyond!

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We're Here For You There is a lot that's happening right now and it can be a very stressful and confusing time. With schools closing for extended periods of time, we want you to know that we are here to support you as best as we can.

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G Suite

It's easy to feel anxious, overwhelmed and frustrated if you're asked to create elearning activities and teach remotely because of a school closure.

You might be asking ...

What are my students going to do?

How can they continue learning at a high level?

Can I maintain that teacher/student connection through elearning?

How can I keep up with the demands of elearning?

Some ideas and examples to follow can help. Having some plug-and-play activities to assign students can help, too -- even if you need to adjust them to fit your students' needs.

We've got you covered.

In this post, you'll find 100 elearning activities, templates and tutorials. They'll help you create elearning activities that lend themselves to powerful learning when students are away from school.

Some ideas to keep in mind as you roll out your eLearning activities:

Keep communication with students and parents at the forefront. Be ready for questions. Make your communication more thorough than you anticipate.

Simplicity is key. Activities that are too complicated can be hard to follow through without the proper support.

Make space for students' emotional needs, too. Their routine is disrupted. They don't get to see their teacher or their fellow students. Help them to make those connections while they're away.

Don't be too hard on yourself. If you've never taught with eLearning activities, it'll be a learning process. Do your best. Learn and improve.

Lean on others for support. Use social media and colleagues in your school/district to brainstorm ideas.

Here are over 100 remote learning activities, templates and tutorials you can use tomorrow:

Free Remote Learning Online Course

14 modules

2.5+ hours of video

Downloadable planning guides

Lifetime access

Forum for sharing ideas

Tech Like A PIRATE is now available!

Looking for more teaching ideas like these?

Get three FREE ebooks sent right to your inbox!

101 Practical Ways to Ditch That Textbook, Matt's insanely practical guide full of new teaching ideas.

101 Ways to Ditch That Textbook with G Suite, tons of practical, creative ways to use Google tools in the classroom.

50 FREE Templates for Teachers, with templates you can copy and download to assign directly to students.

Do More with Google Classroom

Teach better. Save time. Make a difference.

The short how-to tutorials on Google Classroom are EVERYWHERE. But how do we teach well with it? In this book, you'll find practical ideas to do great teaching with Google Classroom and thrive.

Looking for more remote learning resources? Our distance learning page has TONS of resources for bringing learning directly to your students no matter where they are! 💻 100 remote learning activities templates and tutorials
💻 Distance learning lesson planning guides and templates
💻 FREE ebooks for getting started or taking your remote teaching farther

For notifications of new Ditch That Textbook content and helpful links:

Are you looking for quality, meaningful professional learning that both equips and inspires teachers?

Matt provides in-person and virtual keynotes, workshops and breakout sessions that equip, inspire and encourage teachers to create change in their classrooms. Teachers leave with loads of resources. They participate. They laugh. They see tech use and teaching in a new light. Click the link below to contact us and learn how you can bring Matt to your school or district!

FREE teaching ideas and templates in your inbox every week!

Subscribe to Ditch That Textbook

©2023 Ditch That Textbook by Matt Miller.

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100 remote learning activities, templates and tutorials

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Remote learning activities can be fun AND promote quality learning. Here are lots of examples and templates to use!It's easy to feel anxious, overwhelmed

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Instantly access over 40,000 of the best books & videos for kids on Epic

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This post may contain affiliate links. Read the full disclosure for more information.

In the last few years, Netflix has completely transformed the way many Americans watch movies. Long gone are the days of driving to the video store, browsing through the aisles of endless new releases. Now, you can do it all, right from the comfort of your home. From romance to dramas, there's something for everyone. Lucky for us, the streaming site is jam-packed with educational shows on Netflix.

Netflix has also been a game-changer in the way we homeschool. Sick days can still be educational . Parents can clean the house while kids learn, right from the couch. The number of educational shows on Netflix is growing everyday! Not to mention the benefits Netflix has added to homeschoolers who learn best visually.

But how do you know what to watch on Netflix? Once you start browsing, it's easy to get sidetracked by the latest Disney shows or your favorite sitcoms.
Let me tell you a little secret to keeping the kids on task:
Create a separate profile on Netflix. Name it "School" and add ONLY educational materials to this profile.

A great starting point is to add our "100 best Educational Shows to Stream on Netflix" list. Then when you need to keep the kids busy, allow them to watch only shows you have added to this account. It works great and keeps the kids from getting sidetracked by the show they're currently binge-watching.

150+ Educational Shows on Netflix

From the jungle to your backyard, there's a huge collection of animal-inpired educational shows on Netflix.

Grab a free printable copy of this list when you join our weekly mailing list!

Earth & Nature :

From unbelievable natural disasters to the depths of the ocean, there's plenty for nature-lovers on Netflix.

There's still tons to learn about space, but Netflix has plenty to jumpstart your out-of-this-world interests.

Presidents:

From hundreds of years ago to the current president, pick any of these educational shows on Netflix and be inspired.

How to Win the US Presidency

The Wheelchair President

JFK: The Making of a President

Meet the Trumps: From Immigrant to President

History often repeats itself, so be prepared with these interesting shows.

Though they're long gone, dinosaurs still capture our interests like nothing else!

Documentaries:

There's something for everyone with these educational shows on Netflix. Picking which one to watch is the hard part!

Learn all about a topic, while actually enjoying it!

Travel the world from your home using these educational shows on Netflix.

Food/Nutrition/Health:

From diet to the amazing human body, you'll be amazed at these eye-opening shows.

These shows will leave you scratching your head, deep in thought.

A look inside some of the most intense situations on earth. Most are rated "M" for language, but please view before watching with your kids.

There you have it! A complete list of 150+ of the best educational shows on Netflix!

Sign up for our weekly newsletter for access to our Free Printable Netflix Cheat Sheet!

Nothing grab your attention?
Join Amazon Prime - Watch Thousands of Movies & TV Shows Anytime - Start Free Trial Now
Is LIFE overwhelming you?

Don't miss our latest ebook with tips and tricks for whipping your life into shape. From meal planning to paying bills, housework to family time, we've got ideas to help you simplify the not-so-fun things so you can spend more time doing what you love!

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150+ Educational Shows on Netflix - Homeschool Hideout

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This post may contain affiliate links. Read the full disclosure for more information. In the last few years, Netflix has completely transformed the way many Americans watch movies. Long gone are the days of driving to the video store, browsing through the aisles of endless new releases.

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When you are on vacation, running errands or just away from home, free video read alouds are a great way to fill what can be hours of waiting into a lot of fun! These are convenient stories for families on the go. View them on a computer, tablet, or phone. If you have a few minutes you have time for a story! The playlist below includes more than 100 video read alouds from old classics like Where the Wild Things Are to newer favorites like Little Jumbo. Featured readers include actors, performers, celebrities, and oftentimes the author themselves. This listening library is available all day every day (and all night!) for returning to old favorites. "Read it again!" has never been easier!

Click on a book cover to hear a story!

For more help keeping children hearing and enjoying great stories you can find even MORE Free Video Read Alouds or try IndyPL's DIY Online Storytimes at Home. Because reading aloud to kids-even after they know how to read independently-benefits kids of all ages. Video read alouds are a great tool to help create a culture of reading. They don't replace reading aloud together in-person, but they are a fun alternative and supply key early literacy benefits.

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Looking for free video read alouds of children's stories? Just click on a book cover to watch 100+ stories read aloud!

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American Museum of Natural History

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Unite for Literacy provides free digital access to picture books, narrated in many languages. Literacy is at the core of a healthy community, so we unite with partners to enable all families to read with their young children.

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museum fine arts boston museums art massachusetts mfa

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Open to infinite possibilities inspired by art, together we're creating a community where all belong.

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The Kid Should See This: Educational videos for curious kids of all ages, a free resource for parents & teachers. Science, art, nature, animals, & more.

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During these turbulent times, many authors are jumping in to connect with readers. Author Laura Shovan has launched a movement of authors willing to connect via snail mail. Below, you can find a list of authors willing to participate and write back to students. Happy writing! ✏️

List of Authors

Laura Shovan

Author of Takedown & The Last Fifth Grade of Emerson Elementary

Laura Shovan
P.O. Box 203
Highland MD 20777

Susan Muaddi Darraj

Author of the Farah Rocks series

Susan Muaddi Darraj
Po Box 474
Phoenix MD 21131

Chris Grabenstein

Author of the Mr. Lemoncello's Library series

Planetarium Station
PO Box 1050
NY, NY 10024

MarcyKate Connolly

Author of the Shadow Weaver series

MarcyKate Connolly
PO Box 180
N. Billerica, MA 01862

Rachel Toalson

Author of The Colors of the Rain & The Woods

Rachel Toalson
PO Box 591596
San Antonio, TX 78259

Nanci Turner Steveson

Author of Lizzie Flying Solo

Nanci Turner Steveson
PO Box 3195
Jackson, WY 83001

Jess Rinker

Author of Gloria Takes a Stand

Jess Rinker
PO Box 221
Old Fields, WV 26845

S.A. Larsen

Author of Motley Education

Sheri Larsen (S.A. Larsen)
1110 Kennedy Memorial Drive
Oakland, Maine 04963

Randi Sonenshine

Author of The Nest That Wren Built

Randi Sonenshine
489 Waterford Dr
Cartersville, GA 30120

randi@randisonenshine.com

Jane Koluth

Author of Anne Frank's Chestnut Tree

120 Brook St.
Holliston, MA 01746

Email: jane@janekohuth.com

Laurie Morrison

Author of Up for Air

Laurie Morrison
800 N 2nd Street, PMB 238
Philadelphia, PA 19123

Erin Teagan

Author of Survivor Girl

Erin Teagan
PO Box 2364
Purcellville VA 20134

Allison Ofanansky

Author of The Patchwork Torah, the Nature in Israel series and the How It's Made series

Allison Ofanansky
POB 134
Tzfat, Israel 13401

Joanne Levy

Author of Crushing It

Joanne Levy
PO Box 153
Clinton, ON N0M 1L0, Canada

Lisa Schroeder

Author of Wish on All the Stars

Lisa Schroeder
6107 SW Murray Blvd. #204
Beaverton, OR 97008

Lynne Kelly

Author of Song for a Whale

Lynne Kelly
PO Box 8293
Spring, TX 77387

Anica Mrose Rissi

Author of the Anna, Banana series

Anica Mrose Rissi
P.O. Box 581
Princeton, NJ 08542

Stephanie Ward

Author of Arabella and the Magic Pencil

Stephanie Ward
Flat 7
59 Netherhall Gardens
London NW35RE U.K.

More Authors

The authors below (listed in alphabetical order) are sharing their mailing addresses via direct message (DM) on Twitter or via email. Feel free to reach out for their addresses!

Tina Athaide, author of Orange for the Sunsets - @tathaide

Shannon Anderson, author of Coasting Casey - @shannonteaches

Chris Baron, author of All of Me - @baronchrisbaron

Elisa Boxer, author of The Voice That Won The Vote - @eboxer

Leslie Bulion, author of Amphibian Acrobats - @LeslieBulion

Kathleen Burkinshaw, author of The Last Cherry Blossom - klburkinshaw@gmail.com

Danielle Cohen Joseph, author of Tap Tap - Danielle@daniellejoseph.com

Abby Cooper, author of Sticks & Stones - @_ACoops_

Trevor D, author of I Am Me - trevord.author@gmail.com

Erin Dealey, author of Snow Globe Wishes - @ErinDealey

Natalie Dias Lorenzi, author of Flying the Dragon & A Long Pitch Home - @NatalieLorenzi

Rebecca Donnelly, author of Green Machine - @_becca_donnelly

Maria Faust Bostian, author of Fraidy Brady and the First Field Trip - mjbostian@gmail.com

Lija Fisher, author of The Cryptid Catcher - @LijaFisher

Heidi Fishman, author of Tutti's Promise - kheidifishmanauthor@gmail.com

Carol Gordon Ekster, author of You Know What? - @cekster

Lee Gjertsen Malone, author of Camp Shady Crook - LeeGjertsenMalone@gmail.com

Gila Green, author of No Entry - see contact form at gilagreenwrites.com

Shari Green, author of Root Beer Candy & Other Miracles - @sharigreen

Evelyn Kreiger, author of One is Not a Lonely Number - contact via website at EvelynKrieger.net

Sarah Lamstein, author of Big Night for Salamanders - sarahm45@aol.com

Lindsay Leslie, author of This Book is Spineless - @LLeslie

Caitlin Lochner, author of A Soldier and a Liar - @CaiLochner

Mariama Lockington, author of For Black Girls Like Me - mariamalockington@gmail.com

Amy Losak, author of H is for Haiku - Losak@optonline.net

Gina Loveless, author of Diary of a 5th Grade Outlaw - @lovelesswriting

Tammy Lyon, illustrator of Katie Woo series - @TammieLyon or tammielyon@gmail.com

Sue Macy, author of The Book Rescuer - @suemacy1 or sue@suemacy.com

Tracey Meltzer Kyle, author of Pepe and the Parade - TraceyKyleAuthor@gmail.com

Naomi Milliner, author of Super Jake and the King of Chaos - naomiwm@verizon.net

Anne Marie Pace, author of Vampirina Ballerina - annemarie@annemariepace.com

Mary Quattlebaum, author of Pirate vs. Pirate - mary@maryquattlebaum.com

Stacey Ramey, author of It's My Life - @stacieramey or stacieswritinglife@gmail.com

Amanda Rawson Hill, author of The Three Rules of Everyday Magic - @amandarhill32

Madelyn Rosenberg, author of Cyclops of Central Park - @madrosenberg or madelynruth@gmail.com

Victoria Sanchez, author of Pilar's Worries - @victoriasansays

Bracha K. Sharp, author of The Challah Girl - contact via website https://www.brachaksharp.com/contact-me

Kate Szegda, author of Pharmacy Girl - Kate@Kateszegda.com

Sasha Thomas, author of The Slug Queen Chronicles - @ichigoblack

Rosanne Tolin, author of More than Marmalade: Michael Bond and the Story of Paddington Bear - @roseannegtolin

Beth Vrabel, author of The Newspaper Club - @beth_vrabel

Rozanne Weissman, author of Rozanne Travels to Africa to Kiss a Giraffe - RWCommerce@gmail.com

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#WriteToAnAuthor: Connecting with Authors by Letter * Reading Connects Us

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During these turbulent times, many authors are jumping in to connect with readers. Author Laura Shovan has launched a movement of authors willing to connect via snail mail. Below, you can find a list of authors willing to participate and write back to students. Happy writing!

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Who says you can't play with your food? The Building Brick Waffle Maker lets you play with your favorite breakfast food in any way you can imagine! Breakfast is not only the most important meal of the day, but it can now be the most fun, too! The Building Brick Waffle Maker creates patented interlocking...

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Who says you can't play with your food? The Building Brick Waffle Maker lets you play with your favorite breakfast food in any way you can imagine! Breakfast is not only the most important meal of the day, but it can now be the most fun, too!

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"kids yoga" "yoga for kids" "yoga for children yoga story for kids" "children's yoga" "yoga adventure for kids" "kindergarten yoga" "preschool yoga" "kids me...

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YOGA | MINDFULNESS | RELAXATION FOR KIDS! Screentime that gives kids SUPERPOWERS! ⬇️ D O W N L O A D T H E C O S M I C K I D S A P P ⬇️ 🍏Apple: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/cosmic-kids/ 🛍️Android: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.cosmickids 🖥️ Desktop (great for teachers!): https://app.cosmickids.com/ 📺 Roku: https://rb.gy/44r8d -------------------------------------------------------------------- Why watch on the App?

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Meteorology, astronomy, geology

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National Gallery of Art Daily Gallery Tours on Twitter

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National Gallery of Art Daily Gallery Tours on Twitter

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Browse different examples of Newsela content custom made for specific subjects and reading levels. Find content for social studies, science, ELA, SEL and more.

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Story Time From Space | T2 Science & Math Education Consultants

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Story Time from Space Directory

Book by Susan Lendroth
Read in space by astronaut Christina Koch
Running Time: 9:34 Minutes

Running Time: 22:04 Minutes

Running Time: 18:28 Minutes

Running Time: 13:15 Minutes
Read by: Anne McClain

Running Time: 9:31 Minutes

Read by: Hazzaa al-Mansoori (In Arabic)

Running Time: 10:29 Minutes

Written by: Lost My Name

Read by: Tim Peake

Running Time: 16 Minutes

Written by: Jeffrey Bennett

Read by: Mike Hopkins

Running Time: 16 Minutes

Written by: Jeffrey Bennett

Read by: Koichi Wakata
Running Time: 15 Minutes
Written by: Jeffrey Bennett

Read by: Mike Hopkins
Running Time: 15:16
Written by: Jeffrey Bennett

Read by: Mike Hopkins
Running Time: 16:35
Written by: Jeffrey Bennett

Read by: Mike Hopkins
Running Time: 20:32
Written by: Jeffrey Bennett

Read by: Koichi Wakata
Running Time: 15:47
Written by: John Danny Olivas

Read by: Tim Kopra
Running Time: 8:32
Written by: Andrea Beaty

Read by: Kate Rubins

Running Time: 11:16

Written by: Jeffrey Bennett
Read by: Col. R. Shane Kimbrough
Scientists and Their Writings

Running Time: 10:53

Written by: Jessica Fries-Gaither
Read by: Joseph Acaba
Running Time: 13.51

Written by: Travis Bossard & Mick Szydlowski
Read by: Richard (Ricky) Arnold
Running Time: 11:35

Written by: Emily Morgan
Read by: Mark Vande Hei Running Time: 8:07
Written by: Mark Kelly
Read by: Scott Kelly

Mousetronaut Goes to Mars - Coming Soon

Running Time: TBD

Written by: Mark Kelly

Read by: Scott Kelly

The Rhino Who Swallowed a Storm - Coming Soon

Running Time: TBD

Written by: LeVar Burton and Susan Bernardo

Read by: TBD

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Library Directory | Story Time From Space

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Book by Susan Lendroth Read in space by astronaut Christina Koch Running Time: 9:34 Minutes Running Time: 22:04 Minutes Running Time: 18:28 Minutes Running Time: 13:15 Minutes Read by: Anne McClain Running Time: 9:31 Minutes Read by: Hazzaa al-Mansoori (In Arabic) Running Time: 10:29 Minutes Written by: Lost My Name

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Where the Wonders of Learning Never Cease | Wonderopolis

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Where the Wonders of Learning Never Cease

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From reptiles and amphibians to fish, birds and mammals, meet the animals at the Smithsonian's National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute.

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Now students can follow the latest news. All tailored to their reading level. To explore the kids' website, select a grade and discover new stories each week.

View articles by grade level

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Now students can follow the latest news. All tailored to their reading level. To explore the kids' website, select a grade and discover new stories each week. View articles by grade level

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Fun Stuff for Kids and Teens | Smithsonian Institution

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Entertaining activities, games, and fun stuff to do online from the Smithsonian's museums, research centers, and zoo.

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Our health system will not be able to cope with the projected numbers of people who will need acute care should we not muster the fortitude and will to socially distance each other starting now. On a regular day, we have about 45,000 staffed ICU beds nationally, which can be ramped up in a crisis to about 95,000. Even moderate projections suggest that if current infectious trends hold, our capacity (locally and nationally) may be overwhelmed as early as mid-late April. Thus, the only strategies that can get us off this concerning trajectory are those that enable us to work together as a community to maintain public health by staying apart.

The wisdom, and necessity, of this more aggressive, early, and extreme form of social distancing can be found here. I would urge you to take a minute to walk through the interactive graphs - they will drive home the point about what we need to do now to avoid a worse crisis later. Historical lessons and experiences of countries worldwide have shown us that taking these actions early can have a dramatic impact on the magnitude of the outbreak. So what does this enhanced form of social distancing mean on a daily basis, when schools are cancelled?

Here are some steps you can start taking now to keep your family safe and do your part to avoid a worsening crisis:

A local, town by town response won't have the adequate needed effect. We need a statewide, nationwide approach in these trying times. Contact your representative and your governor to urge them to enact statewide closures. As of today, six states have already done so. Your state should be one of them. Also urge leaders to increase funds for emergency preparedness and make widening coronavirus testing capacity an immediate and top priority. We also need legislators to enact better paid sick leave and unemployment benefits to help nudge people to make the right call to stay at home right now.

This sounds extreme because it is. We are trying to create distance between family units and between individuals. It may be particularly uncomfortable for families with small children, kids with differential abilities or challenges, and for kids who simply love to play with their friends. But even if you choose only one friend to have over, you are creating new links and possibilities for the type of transmission that all of our school/work/public event closures are trying to prevent. The symptoms of coronavirus take four to five days to manifest themselves. Someone who comes over looking well can transmit the virus. Sharing food is particularly risky - I definitely do not recommend that people do so outside of their family.

We have already taken extreme social measures to address this serious disease - let's not actively co-opt our efforts by having high levels of social interaction at people's houses instead of at schools or workplaces. Again - the wisdom of early and aggressive social distancing is that it can flatten the curve above, give our health system a chance to not be overwhelmed, and eventually may reduce the length and need for longer periods of extreme social distancing later (see what has transpired in Italy and Wuhan). We need to all do our part during these times, even if it means some discomfort for a while.

Exercise, take walks/runs outside, and stay connected through phone, video, and other social media. But when you go outside, do your best to maintain at least six feet between you and non-family members. If you have kids, try not to use public facilities like playground structures, as coronavirus can live on plastic and metal for two to three days, and these structures aren't getting regularly cleaned.

Going outside will be important during these strange times, and the weather is improving. Go outside every day if you are able, but stay physically away from people outside your family or roommates. If you have kids, try playing a family soccer game instead of having your kids play with other kids, since sports often mean direct physical contact with others. And though we may wish to visit elders in our community in person, I would not visit nursing homes or other areas where large numbers of the elderly reside, as they are at highest risk for complications and mortality from coronavirus.

Social distancing can take a toll (after all, most of us are social creatures). The CDC offers tips and resources to reduce this burden, and other resources offer strategies to cope with the added stress during this time.

We need to find alternate ways to reduce social isolation within our communities through virtual means instead of in-person visits.

Of course trips to the grocery store will be necessary, but try to limit them and go at times when they are less busy. Consider asking grocery stores to queue people at the door in order to limit the number of people inside a store at any one time. Remember to wash your hands thoroughly before and after your trip. And leave the medical masks and gloves for the medical professionals - we need them to care for those who are sick. Maintain distance from others while shopping - and remember that hoarding supplies negatively impacts others so buy what you need and leave some for everyone else. Take-out meals and food are riskier than making food at home given the links between the people who prepare food, transport the food, and you. It is hard to know how much that risk is, but it is certainly higher than making it at home. But you can and should continue to support your local small businesses (especially restaurants and other retailers) during this difficult time by buying gift certificates online that you can use later.

If you are sick, you should try to isolate yourself from the rest of your family within your residence as best as you can. If you have questions about whether you qualify or should get a coronavirus test, you can call your primary care team and/or consider calling the Massachusetts Department of Public Health at 617.983.6800 (or your state's department of health if you are outside of Massachusetts). Don't just walk into an ambulatory clinic - call first so that they can give you the best advice - which might be to go to a drive-through testing center or a virtual visit on video or phone. Of course, if it is an emergency call 911.

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Social Distancing: This is Not a Snow Day

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Our health system will not be able to cope with the projected numbers of people who will need acute care should we not muster the fortitude and will to socially distance each other starting now. On a regular day, we have about 45,000 staffed ICU beds nationally, which can be ramped up in a crisis to about 95,000.

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Learning Resources | Boston Children's Museum

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Children spend their whole day learning, and Boston Children's Museum provides resources for families and educators to help support that continuous discovery. Our long history of working with educators dates back to our earliest days - the Museum was actually founded by Boston science teachers in 1913.

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Pencil Code is a collaborative programming site for drawing art, playing music, and creating games. It is also a place to experiment with mathematical functions, geometry, graphing, webpages, simulations, and algorithms. Programs are open for all to see and copy.

Watch a video overview or watch a video tutorial.

The main language is Coffeescript. Professional software engineers use Coffeescript to build complex websites, but Coffeescript code can also be very simple.

Pencil Code can also be used to explore and learn Javascript, HTML, and CSS: when you are ready, just find the "gear" button to adjust languages.

Programs preload the pencilcode library to use turtle graphics functions. Pencil Code is all open source. Hang out on the Pencil Code discussion forum or check out the quick reference or the online guide to find out more. There is also an illustrated Pencil Code book with more than 100 small projects.

Anybody can save programs and web pages, but read the Terms of Service and the Privacy Policy first. Two rules:

Be Nice. Do not mess up other peoples' work. Do not post content that detracts from education on the site. This a learning space that is not locked down (for example, passwords are optional). So feel free to explore, create, and link, but also please be considerate.

Be Careful. Do not depend on Pencil Code to keep your data safe. Data posted here is public, and data is not secured from loss. Do not post private or personally identifiable information. Passwords on Pencil Code do not prevent malicious interference.

The Pencil Code Foundation is devoted to advancing computer science education by making programming as simple and as universal as using a pencil. Contribute to the development of Pencil Code at dev.pencilcode.net or github. - info@pencilcode.net.

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Pencil is a collaborative programming site for drawing art, playing music, and creating games. Pencil is also a place to experiment with mathematical functions, geometry, graphing, webpages, simulations, and algorithms. Programs are open for all to see and copy.

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Scratch is a free programming language and online community where you can create your own interactive stories, games, and animations.

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Hour of Code

This year, we're taking Hour of Code to new heights by offering coding opportunities that encompass both artificial intelligence (AI) and non-AI components.

Want to keep learning? Go beyond an hour

Teachers: Host an hour or read the How-To Guide

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Use computer science to explore and learn about AI!

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Description: A fun and interactive way to practice your shapes, numbers and exercise

What you need: A deck or card and space to exercise

Directions: Place your deck of cards face down on a flat surface. First player picks a card: the group does the corresponding exercises.  If you finish the deck, try playing round 2 by multiplying by 2 and so on.  Have fun!

·    RED (2-10) = That many - Jumping Jacks

·    Black (2-10) = That many - Mountain Climbers

·    J, Q, or K = 11, 12-13 Leg Lifts

·    A = 10 Burpees

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Play free games and quizzes, find art activities, explore homework help and share your art with Tate Kids. The best art website for kids.

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The first five minutes of any art class can become chaotic quickly. It's important to have a daily routine for students to follow. Using bell ringers is a great strategy to help settle students and save time. It sets the tone for a productive class.

Bell work can be presented in various ways. From answering questions to writing down vocabulary words, the possibilities are endless!

One engaging idea is to start each class by having students complete "The Daily Draw."

Students come into class, take out their sketchbooks, and complete the drawing prompt as they wait for further instructions. This practice serves as a way to get students involved and ready to learn in a quick, easy way.

A drawing prompt is a great way to start class, but it's just one option. If you're looking for more ways to get your students seated and settled, be sure to check out the Insider Secrets for Successfully Managing the Classroom PRO Learning pack! There's an entire section devoted to successfully starting each class period.

The key to effective bell work is to make it as engaging as possible.

Below you'll find a list of 100 Silly Drawing Prompts. These prompts are a great way to get your students warmed up for class. You might even find your students rushing to your room to see what silly drawing idea you'll come up with next!
Download Now
100 Silly Drawing Prompts

Animals

Food

People

Draw your art teacher on an island.

Draw a teacher eating a pizza while dancing.

Draw a person with fruit for hair.

Draw a basketball player dunking a chicken.

Draw a pirate in a hammock.

Draw your teacher as a zombie.

Draw your art teacher with a beard.

Draw yourself with a super power.

Draw a clown sneezing out flowers.

Draw a person with donuts for eyes.

Draw a cowboy in Antarctica riding a polar bear.

Draw yourself as a fairy.

Make Believe

Draw something other than a pot of gold at the end of the rainbow.

Draw a troll riding a unicorn.

Draw what your imaginary friend would look like if we could see them.

Draw a dragon breathing rainbows.

Draw an alien driving a car.

Draw an elf jumping on a trampoline.

Objects/Places

Other

These ideas are not only great for bell work but can be used for sketchbook prompts as well. If you're looking for even more sketchbook ideas, check out an additional 100 right here.
What silly drawing prompt would you add to this list? What kind of bell work do you do in your art room?
Magazine articles and podcasts are opinions of professional education contributors and do not necessarily represent the position of the Art of Education University (AOEU) or its academic offerings. Contributors use terms in the way they are most often talked about in the scope of their educational experiences.

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100 Silly Drawing Prompts to Engage Your Students - The Art of Education University

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The first five minutes of any art class can become chaotic quickly. It's important to have a daily routine for students to follow. Using bell ringers is a great strategy to help settle students and save time. It sets the tone for a productive class. Bell work can be presented in various ways.

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Posted by The VerMints Gang on 2nd May 2016

Homemade fruit and vegetable paint is recycling at its finest.

When you just can't finish that bag of wilting spinach (hey, it happens to the best of us), DIY paint is a great way to make the most out of a droopy, potentially smelly, situation. Plus it'll buy you time between trips to the compost bin and save you a bundle on toddler craft supplies.

So rather than trying to pass smoothies off as dinner for days on end, whip up a delicious family meal, pop an organic mint, and turn those old food scraps into chemical-free vegan paint for the kids.

The other nice thing about vegetable paint is it's incredibly easy to make and it's versatile, too. The instructions below are for making a veggie-based dye, which you can use for things like clothing or Easter eggs. With just one or two additional ingredients you can also make craft paint or face paint. Start with some boiling water and an assortment of veggies for color variety, and you'll have the kids making all kinds of DIY crafts in no time.

VEGETABLE PAINT INGREDIENTS

Spinach, kale, swiss chard = green

Strawberry, beets, grenade, blueberry, raspberry = red

Blueberry, blackberry, red cabbage = blue / purple

Carrot, orange peels, yellow onion skins = orange

MAKING THE DYE

In a small saucepan, mix 2 cups of water with 1 cup of each fruit or veg. Bring to a boil over medium heat and leave to simmer for about one hour.

Turn off the heat and allow the water to cool to room temperature.

Strain the juice into glass containers.

MAKE VEGETABLE PAINT

Mix one teaspoon of dye with approximately six tablespoons of powdered sugar.

MAKE FACE PAINT

Combine equal parts corn starch and your favorite vegan face lotion. Add about ¼ teaspoon vegetable oil to help smooth out the mixture.

Add a spoonful of vegetable dye to the lotion mixture. Repeat with all your dye colors in separate containers until you've got a complete set of face paints.

For more awesome DIY craft ideas straight to your inbox, subscribe to our Suckers Academy eNewsletter at the top of this page!

Image courtesy of Popsugar.com

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Make natural paint with leftover fruits and veggies

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Posted by The VerMints Gang on 2nd May 2016 Homemade fruit and vegetable paint is recycling at its finest. When you just can't finish that bag of wilting spinach (hey, it happens to the best of us), DIY paint is a great way to make the most out of a droopy, potentially smelly, situation.

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"In producing this animation, I realized just how easy and fun it is to work with clay. Because it's such an expressive material, and so easy to manipulate in all different ways, it effortlessly can bring forms to life, and with enough precision, produce fluid movements through stop motion that are hard to capture with other mediums.

I didn't even plan my story line in the beginning-I just started working the clay and decided to come up with and create things as I go along. The only struggle I encountered in the process was slightly deforming my characters by accident as I moved them around. Because the material is so soft, it's easy to slowly alter the original shape of a clay object without realizing it after picking it up and moving it around so much."

"This project was very eye opening for me. Coming from a mainly 2D artistic background, dealing with clay and sculpture was sort of intimidating at first, but after messing around with the clay and getting a feel for it, it was actually very fun!

I went through a couple of animation ideas which I wrote down, but I ended up going with one about a little character (Paulie) showing off his personality through a few quirks and movements. Not only did I get to learn how to work with clay a bit more, but I also got to build a character that does not conform to anatomy norms, which was incredibly entertaining for me.

One thing I could do better next time is, again, figuring out how to take consistent photos of each position so that the final project is not choppy."

"This piece is about the conclusion of my four years of high school. I've picked up habits that are specific to my school, such as using the right bathrooms and knowing which food is edible in the cafeteria.

I chose to convey my message with stop motion animation because I felt that it would allow me to use different materials for textures. I am heavily interested in fibers, and creating an animation allowed me to explore a new way of working. I'm so grateful for Deepti's tutorial because it was simple and provided me with a good foundation for making this video!"

Partial Video Transcript
Deepti: "Stop motion animation is a really fun and easy way of approaching animation that uses found objects, or objects that you've made, generally 3D objects to create an animated film. I particularly like stop motion animation because if you don't have a lot of experience animating or a lot of experience making objects, this is a really easy way to jump right into animation because you can use things just found around your house.

All you really need is a series of objects and then an image capturing device. Like a smartphone or a camera. So it's really quick and you can achieve a lot in a small amount of time.

Casey: "I think it's interesting that you said you can use household items, because to me i think of stop motion animation and the first thing I think of is Wes Anderson's 'Fantastic Mr. Fox,' or 'Wallace and Gromit' cartoons. And then to realize that you can use just anything basically anything, that's a 3-dimensional object is really cool."

Deepti: "You have an object and you move it rather than redrawing every frame, that's kind of the difference between stop motion and cell animation. I think it's even more fun to get something like clay and create your own objects so your film has a little bit of personality and individuality.

In the past, with the air dry clays that I've used, I find that they always crack once they dry. They kind of come in not great colors."

Casey: "I remember being a kid and my mom would always look for something for my brother I to do, like crafts-wise. And we were always trying ike new clays. So we've tried like it all, and so I have really no idea what a good brand of air dry clay is."

Deepti: "We can start by talking about this type of clay, which is the resin clay. You can mix the resin clay, and create new colors by mixing the two colors together."

Casey: "I thought the cream clay was really cool. It really does feel like, exactly like frosting."

Deepti: "Yeah so airy, and like fluffy. Foam clay is the most unique, because it has such a distinct texture to it. Before using this air dry clay for some of my work, I would use oven bake clay, and actually press into to create like a fun bumpy texture, and I found using the foam clay, I totally don't need to do it anymore.

I don't like planning too much in advance just in general as an artist because I find that I get too disappointed with things not turning out exactly how I wanted it, which is kind of inevitable. So I've found that acting spontaneously with my work, especially with things like this that are more for fun and experimentation, works a lot better for me.

I just never think of an animator as that kind of person because in my head that takes so much planning to put together an animation."

"Yeah, the great thing about stop motion animation is like, to objects you're making matter less than how you move them, or like how you're using them in the animation so, it's really fun to just, mindlessly create a bunch of objects that you think will look cool on screen.

But then you can manipulate them to give them even more life and character. What I have here is I have a tripod arm, and it's in this s curve, because I want my iPhone stabilized on it. But I also want the iPhone to have the camera pointing down, and the screen pointing up so I can see what I'm animating.

This tripod arm is really inexpensive. Make sure that you're camera is stable because you don't want the camera moving between each photograph. Then I have a colorful piece of paper taped to my table. You can use a patterned piece of paper, you could even use a white one if you want. But I've just found that a colored one gives it an extra pop.

The app that I'm using the stop motion is called Stop Motion Studio. There are stop motion versions for both the iphone and android phone and they're both free apps. When you open the app, this is the screen that you get.

What you want to do is you want to tap new movie, sometimes things will come up, you can just hit dismiss, and it will prompt you, tap here to add some pictures. And then you see your live view."

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Introduction to Stop Motion Animation with Air Dry Clay | Art Prof: Create & Critique

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"In producing this animation, I realized just how easy and fun it is to work with clay.

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The activities below are available for free download, and are to be used in educational and/or private settings. They may not be used elsewhere or for other purposes (such as for profit) unless explicit permission is granted.
Below will find: Blank Comic Book Pages, Special Activities, "Finish This Story!" Story Starters, "How to Draw..." Instructions, "Finish This Comic!" Comics, and Drawing/Writing Prompts.
More activities are being added to this page regularly, so make sure to check back for more. And if you like the activities below, don't miss my activity books, GIVE THIS BOOK A TITLE and GIVE THIS BOOK A COVER, available wherever books are sold!
Click on the numbers below to find a variety of different blank comic book pages. Each number corresponds to a different arrangement of panels on the page. Print out a few of each, or a bunch of one kind, and make your own comic!

Special Activities

Click HERE to download the above activity sheet!

Click HERE to download the above activity sheet!

Click HERE to download the above activity sheet!

Click HERE to download the Introduction to Hand-Lettering sheets!

Click HERE to download the above Thank You activities!

Click HERE to download the above Haiku Diary activity!

Click HERE to download the above Thank You activities!

Click HERE to download the above Earth Day activities!

Click HERE to download the above Earth Day activities!

Click HERE to download the above Halloween activities!

Click HERE to download the above Halloween activities!

Click HERE to download the above Halloween activities!

Click HERE to download the above Halloween activities!

"Finish This Story!" Story Starters

Click HERE to download the above "Finish This Story!" activities!

Click HERE to download the above "Finish This Story!" activities!

"How to Draw..." Instructions

Click HERE to download the above "How to Draw..." activities!

Click HERE to download the above "How to Draw..." activities!

Click HERE to download the above "How to Draw..." activities!

Click HERE to download the above "How to Draw..." activities!

Click HERE to download the above "How to Draw..." activities!

Click HERE to download the above "How to Draw..." activities!

Click HERE to download the above "How to Draw..." activities!

Click HERE to download the above "How to Draw..." activities!

Click HERE to download the above "How to Draw..." activities!

Click HERE to download the above "How to Draw..." activities!

Click HERE to download the above "How to Draw..." activities!

Click HERE to download the above "How to Draw..." activities!

Click HERE to download the above "How to Draw..." activities!

Click HERE to download the above "How to Draw..." activities!

"Finish This Comic!" Comics

Below you will find a collection of comics that are incomplete. Look closely at the pictures, then figure out what you need to add to complete the comic!

Click HERE to download the above incomplete comics!

Click HERE to download the above incomplete comics!

Click HERE to download the above incomplete comics!

Click HERE to download the above incomplete comics!

Click HERE to download the above incomplete comics!

Click HERE to download the above incomplete comics!

Click HERE to download the above incomplete comics!

Click HERE to download the above incomplete comics!

Click HERE to download the above incomplete comics!

Click HERE to download the above incomplete comics!

Click HERE to download the above incomplete comics!

Click HERE to download the above incomplete comics!

Click HERE to download the above incomplete comics!

Drawing/Writing Prompts

Below you will find some drawing prompt activity sheets. Completed drawings can also be used as creative writing prompts.

Click HERE to download the above activity sheets!

Click HERE to download the above activity sheets!

Click HERE to download the above activity sheets!

Click HERE to download the above activity sheets!

Click HERE to download the above activity sheets!

Click HERE to download the above activity sheets!

Click HERE to download the above activity sheet!

Click HERE to download the above activity sheet!

Click HERE to download the above activity sheets!

Click HERE to download the above activity sheets!

Click HERE to download the above activity sheet!

Click HERE to download the above activity sheets!

Click HERE to download the above activity sheets!

Click HERE to download the above activity sheet!

Click HERE to download the above activity sheet!

Click HERE to download the above activity sheets!

Click HERE to download the above activity sheet!

Click HERE to download the above activity sheets!

Click HERE to download the above activity sheet!

Click HERE to download the above activity sheets!

Click HERE to download the above activity sheets!

Click HERE to download the above activity sheet!

Click HERE to download the above activity sheets!

Click HERE to download the above activity sheets!

Click HERE to download the above activity sheets!

Click HERE to download the above activity sheets!

Click HERE to download the above activity sheet!

Click HERE to download the above activity sheet!

Click HERE to download the above activity sheet!

Click HERE to download the above activity sheets!

Click HERE to download the above activity sheets!

Click HERE to download the above activity sheets!

Click HERE to download the above activity sheets!

Click HERE to download the above activity sheet!

Click HERE to download the above activity sheets!

Click HERE to download the above activity sheet!

Click HERE to download the above activity sheet!

Click HERE to download the above Spanish version activity sheets!

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The activities below are available for free download, and are to be used in educational and/or private settings. They may not be used elsewhere or for other purposes (such as for profit) unless explicit permission is granted. Below will find: Blank Comic Book Pages, Special Activities, "Finish This Story!"

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An elementary art teacher blog with art projects and lessons, DIY projects and outfit photos as well as clothing I have made myself.

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Draw Every Day with Author/Illustrator Jarrett J. Krosoczka

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Draw Every Day with Author/Illustrator Jarrett J. Krosoczka

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"drawing tutorial" "drawing tutorials" "kids' books" "graphic novels" reading books drawing cartooning vlog memoir booktube "growth mindset"

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New York Times-bestselling author/illustrator Jarrett J. Krosoczka [𝙲𝚛𝚘𝚠-𝚜𝚊𝚞𝚌𝚎-𝚔𝚊𝚑] gives readers a look at his creative process and offers writing and drawing tutorials. JJK has published 45 books, including his wildly popular LUNCH LADY graphic novels, select volumes of the STAR WARS™: JEDI ACADEMY series, and several picture books.

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Humans have a long and mysterious history. Many different types of people have worked together to figure out the mysteries of our past. Archeologists study early human history and ancient history by discovering artifacts that give us clues about our past. Historians study primary and secondary resources and connect ideas and make theories. Scientists use experiments to examine artifacts and test historical theories. Students, teachers, and citizens around the world study all the published work of archeologists, historians, and scientists to develop the current theories we have today. Millions of people of all ages have explored the past and tried to make new connections to understand our history. All of this work has put together a more clear idea of our past, but there are still many mysteries left to solve! New artifacts and discoveries are made every year, some of them make huge changes to our knowledge of the past.

Usually, the farther we go back in history the more mysterious the story. Humans lived for hundreds of thousands of years before civilization. Our pre-human ancestors lived for millions before that. Civilization was a new way of life. A civilization is an advanced society with agriculture, division of labor, multiple cities, organized religion, science/technology, some form of government, and a written language.

The achievement of "Civilization" happened at different times in different places around the world. There is not an official date when a group of people become a "civilization", so historians often choose different start dates, but most of them are close. The timeline above show the four earliest places where civilization began. The modern countries of , , India/Pakistan, and became ancient cultural hearths that still influence life peoples' lives today. A cultural hearth is a place where a culture first developed. This website is designed for kids. Ancient history for kids tries to provide a consistent history of early civilizations in basic language for students to understand. Hope you enjoy!

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Ancient Civilizations | Ancient History for Kids

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Humans have a long and mysterious history. Many different types of people have worked together to figure out the mysteries of our past. Archeologists study early human history and ancient history by discovering artifacts that give us clues about our past. Historians study primary and secondary resources and connect ideas and make theories.

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The Nrich Maths Project Cambridge,England. Mathematics resources for children,parents and teachers to enrich learning. Problems,children's solutions,interactivities,games,articles.