Folder Games

When I taught I called these folder games because they fit in a folder. Creative, right? I've also heard these called independent work or centers depending on the classroom.

 Sweet Son is working on beginning sounds. He lays out the larger alphabet cards and matches a picture of something that starts with that sound. Not only does this teach beginning sounds, but it also teaches test taking skills. There is one right answer for each one so if you end up with two pictures on the same letter you know you need to rethink it. If you aren't sure about a picture you can wait and do all of the ones you are confident about and see what is left. I also prefer the kids doing these on the floor instead of the table because being in the position you see him here -  on his knees - helps develop core strength. Working two different systems at the same time - core stability and phonemic awareness - increases blood flow and helps these academic lessons stick in the memory longer.

 Sweet Daughter is working on the planets and other space related things here. First she matches the photos of the planets/space stuff. Then she matches the name. This work spreads out a lot more than the one above. This is great for a wiggly child as she gets to move around to do the work rather than just sitting in one place. Later (a month or so later) she was able to match the name to the picture and use the combined card to check her work.