Presenting activities, facts, and illustrations, this book takes learning the alphabet to a new level. After an introduction and a brief cartoon look at the history of the alphabet, the book presents 26 four-page mini-chapters (1 for each letter) that include a brief visual history of the letter; trivia tidbits; project ideas; a list of people,…

This oversize (approximately 12 inches by 20 inches) book presents 24 story boards that illustrate ideas for creating picture books. Each page presents one illustrated idea and a brief description of the idea. The book presents 11 ideas related to points of view (including horizontal, foreground, and close-ups), 9 ideas relating to collages…

Explores summer seasonal weather activities for inside and outside the classroom. Offers instructions for hot days, cloudy and wet days, and rainy days, and include lists of supplies, age appropriateness, and instructions. Activities address the following learning areas: (1) intellectual; (2) physical/health/movement; (3) social; and (4) art and…

The primary aim of the creative dramatics program detailed in this handbook is to give teachers a new teaching tool. Participants in the 45 staff development workshops during eight years have been classroom teachers, reading teachers, teachers from Head Start, teachers of special education and mathematics, resource teachers, librarians, and…

In this article, the author discusses the benefits of using songs and poems to teach young learners. The author explains how songs and poems can be used in English class and what their benefits are. The author explains how teachers can use actions or puppets to accompany the selected songs or poems, or allow young learners to create ideas…

This digest considers teacher- and child-initiated strategies for enhancing young children's self-expression and creativity. When teachers think about art and creative activities for children, it is important for them to consider that young children: (1) are developmentally capable of classroom experiences which call for (and practice) higher…

This booklet discusses the use of structured table activities in preschool programs in Australia and alternatives to these activities, such as free play. The booklet notes that structured table activities tend to be teacher-directed, passive, non-creative, and focus on goals set by the teacher. They often do not address the learning requirements…

Examines grammar instruction as part of Montessori's language curriculum. Suggests that teaching grammar remains, without reason, a significant part of the curriculum. Grammar instruction offers children information about language, but that is not teaching language arts. Proposes the five language arts of listening, speaking, writing, reading, and…

Examines the role of storytelling as a medium for promoting language development and cognitive growth in a preschool setting. Gives a rationale for including interactive storytelling in language curriculum and suggestions for its effective use. Underlines that story presentation helps children experience the world as a whole, makes lessons…

Examines arguments commonly used to support the practice of young children coloring-in drawings. Justifications are examined and found to be seriously deficient. Describes three alternatives that involve teaching-learning strategies to facilitate the production of spontaneous drawings: verbal, conversational, and perceptual, each concerned with…

The arts are central to quality early childhood programs. Experiences in the arts commonly attract and sustain children's involvement and provide opportunities for individualized creative responses. This research project investigated the implementation of arts games (structured play experiences based on drama, music, dance, and movement) into the…

Provides historical information on native Southwest peoples and their arts to encourage appreciation and understanding of this cultural heritage. Provides instructions and supply lists for age-appropriate craft projects including woven baskets and rugs, clay pots, clay and paper beads, silver bracelets, kachina dolls, sand paintings, dream…