December is a magical time of year, filled with opportunities to create lasting memories and nurture important skills at home. This month, we’ve put together four exciting weekly themes to engage your little ones in learning through play, creativity, and connection.
Each week, we’ll share a delightful read-aloud story paired with fun activities and worksheets you can easily do together.
Week 1: Winter Crafts and Creativity
This week, let’s get crafty! Winter is the perfect backdrop for creative expression, and we’re exploring fun ways to make festive decorations while building fine motor skills. Gather your art supplies and let the magic begin!
Skill Focus: Fine motor skills and creative thinking
Read-Aloud Story: Snowmen at Night by Caralyn Buehner (YouTube link for read-aloud)This playful story imagines what snowmen might do after dark, inspiring creativity and giggles.
Activities:
DIY Snowflakes: Use this step-by-step guide to fold and cut paper into unique snowflake designs.
Popsicle Stick Ornaments: Get creative with these fun ideas.
Finger Painting Fun: Paint snowy scenes with washable paints and your fingers.
Downloadable Worksheet: A winter-themed colouring page.
Week 2: Cozy Reading Adventures
There’s nothing better than snuggling up with a good story on a chilly day. This week, we’ll dive into a classic winter tale, build cozy reading spaces, and playfully explore early literacy skills through storytelling and games.
Skill Focus: Language and literacy
Read-Aloud Story: The Mitten by Jan Brett (YouTube link for read-aloud)This timeless tale introduces patterns and sequencing, perfect for story retelling.
Activities:
Build a Blanket Fort: Check out these tips for creating a cozy reading nook.
Storytelling activities: Check out these wonderful activities related to this week's book!
Letter Hunt: Hide alphabet cards around your home for a scavenger hunt.
Downloadable Worksheet: Matching Mittens activity to build early reading skills.
Week 3: Giving and Sharing Joy
The holidays are a time for kindness and gratitude. This week, we’re focusing on activities that teach the joy of giving and sharing, with a heartwarming story and creative ways to spread holiday cheer.
Skill Focus: Social-emotional learning
Read-Aloud Story: Bear Stays Up for Christmas by Karma Wilson (YouTube link for read-aloud)A heartwarming story about friendship and the spirit of giving.
Activities:
Gratitude Garland: Follow these instructions to make a paper chain of gratitude notes.
Kindness Jar: Use this printable idea guide.
Simple Gifts: Make painted kindness rocks to share with friends and family.
Downloadable Worksheet: Try out this gratitude jar worksheet!
Week 4: Problem Solving Through Play
Problem-solving can be so much fun! This week’s activities encourage critical thinking and resilience through playful challenges, complemented by an inspiring story about tackling problems with creativity and courage.
Skill Focus: Critical thinking and resilience
Read-Aloud Story: What Do You Do with a Problem? by Kobi Yamada (YouTube link for read-aloud)This inspiring book encourages creative problem-solving and perseverance.
Activities:
Marshmallow Snowball Tower: Build structures using this guide.
Puzzle Challenge: Try this fun puzzle rock animal craft.
Indoor Obstacle Course: Create your own or get ideas from this resource.
Downloadable Worksheet: A winter maze activity to practice focus and decision-making.
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