Make Beef Patties Inside Ziploc BagOne of my absolute favorite meals is hamburgers. I always mix in at least 1-2 seasonings, the most flavorful for me being ranch and onion powders. I dread the mixing and shaping part though because bits of the ground beef sticks to my hands, as I roll and flatten.
Clothespin Click BeetleThis beetle is fun for kids to make after reading Eric Carle's, The Very Clumsy Click Beetle". They will have a blast getting the beetle back onto its "feet".
Blessings Jar for the New YearMost people make resolutions for the New Year. Even if we don't always follow through, it still feels good to make these goals. We have a sense of purpose and a chance at a fresh start. Another way to keep up the New Year's momentum and stay positive is to create a Blessings Jar.
The Best Way to Store Christmas Tree LightsIn Christmas movies where trees are decorated, I often see the lights in a jumbled mess. As a child it was the same way; untangling those lights took forever! A few years ago, I had an epiphany. Why not use paper towel rolls to store the strands? I have used this method for at least four years.
The Many Ways to Utilize PaperThe best way to not waste paper is to avoid using it, but that is nearly impossible. Many people don't have digital access and still have to rely on paper copies of everything. Instead, we need to recycle it and find ways to utilize every inch of paper so nothing is wasted.
Organize Food Pantry With Craft DrawersSeveral years ago, I purchased a craft cart with tons of drawers, for additional storage. The cart itself started being too flimsy to use, but the drawers were in perfect condition. I decided I'd try to use them to organize my pantry, and I love the outcome! I labeled each drawer using my label maker and tried to sporadically place the different colors on the shelves.
Thanksgiving Counting CupsWhen you teach, it is important to change materials frequently. This is especially true when working with younger children. That is why I like to create many different games and activities to go along with each theme. During November, I add paper Thanksgiving cups and counters to the math center. Students are able to practice their number recognition and counting skills.
100th Day of School Paper Plate Gumball MachinesThe 100th day of school is often celebrated with games, activities, art projects, costumes, and parties. I think it started because the 100th day is when Kindergarten students get around to counting to that number. One enjoyable craft for the occasion is making these paper plate gumball machines.
Clothespin ReindeerEvery Christmas I love to make new decorations and ornaments. And this year, I found two reindeer crafts that I had to try. They are easy to make and can be used as regular decor that you set out or ornaments for the tree. I like the traditional look, but you could also mix it up with different paint and accessory colors!
Button Christmas CardsOne of my favorite parts of Christmas is decorating Christmas cards! This year, I found some button card ideas that were too adorable not to try. All of the ones I attempted were really easy to do and turned out great! I think even older kids would enjoy making these cards.
Rorschach SnowflakesGrowing up, you hear that every snowflake is unique. Whether this is true or not, this craft is perfect for demonstrating that. No matter how many times you do this craft, each flake looks different from the previous one. Kids of all ages have fun creating these symmetric patterns.
Meatball SubsThese meatball subs were a family favorite when I was growing up. And on birthdays, we still choose a meal for other family members to prepare. Most of the time my choice is meatball subs. For under $10, you can feed 2-3 people. They are easy to make and taste delicious!
