Within Reach

I have the most adoring group of third grade students. They love to compliment and love to help. At the end of the day, they jump up and down with the eraser to erase all the work on the board. After school, I erased the date and a title which was at the very top of the board. It was above their reach and therefore left unerased. It made me think. Nothing in education should be above our students reach. My goal as an educator is to make material within their reach. I do not want information to be stressful or to be "above their heads". I will explain a math concept 5 different ways because only one way will make sense to some kids. It doesn't matter to me which way turns the light bulb on, I just want it to go on. :) Whenever you are teaching a child a new concept it is important to make sure you create an environment for success. And while I chuckle to myself because someday, those 9 year olds will outgrow me and that date on the board will no longer be out of reach- I also know that someday, they will think back on their year in my classroom. I hope that they feel that third grade was easy, because I made it within their reach.

Planning his first birthday

My son is turning one in April. I figure if I search for and gather ideas now, I'll be ready for his big day.
So here is my working idea list:
Centerpieces- A mason jar filled with a 1 candle and m and m's (See my pinterest, party ideas for pics)
Banner- A photo banner of pics of him from birth through 12 months
Food- I love the idea of turning cake balls into a larger shape
Decor- I want to cover an inside door with wrapping paper. Print the word ONE in several languages and add it to cardstock and patterned paper then add those words to the door. I think I will gift wrap my picture frames as well.........that or switch out the photos so it is a montage of my son. Hmmm... decisions, decisions
  Cookies and Milk Bar*** So doing this! With Alphabet cookies with the letter N and possibly number 1- need a good sugar cookie recipe
May do the wreath.... anyone know how long it will take?



Cookie Dough Dip**** I am in heaven!! .......maybe I should do a cookie monster theme???

Any suggestions are welcome! :)