Jack's Reads
Phenology Wheels: What They Are and How to Use Them
Phenology is the study of seasons and cycles of nature. So, what is a phenology wheel? In short they are drawn or printed out circles or ‘wheel’ diagrams used to record changes in nature over a set amount of time. I have found they are also a great tool to have in your arsenal for fun watercolor projects for kids (although other mediums work just fine.)
Best Montessori Toys for Toddlers
We’ve put together a sure list of the best Montessori toys for every season of life. Focusing on Maria Montessori’s essential dimensions of play; voluntary, enjoyable, purposeful, and spontaneous. Hands on, stimulating learning tools, designed for kids to naturally find discovery through everyday work and play.
Best Waldorf Toys for Every Age
Best Waldorf Toys For Every Age, because play is the work of children. So what better way to play than by using the Waldorf philosophy of head, heart, and hands. With the holiday season approaching, we have compiled a list of the best Waldorf toys this year, natural toys, wooden toys, and some new nature based crafts.
Asheville NC Made Gift Guide
This November, we are getting back to our roots. We teamed up with brands East Fork Pottery, Twin Denim Co, Forest Creature Dolls for this gift guide and an accompanying giveaway. All companies are either founded by Ashevillians, or based in the area. With an eclectic product offering spanning from children’s dolls and costumes, to locally-made pottery sets, to custom-made denim, to artisanal-made Argentine wall hangings, we all share a love for hand-made, whimsical, playful, and beautiful products. We’ve put together a gift guide so to help you gift local, unique, and out-of-the-box this holiday season while supporting small businesses...
4 Ideas for a Simple Dress Up Closet
Do I want to be a butterfly or a superhero today? Imaginative or pretend play is an important part of social development. Pretend play is nature's way of allowing children to develop social and language skills. Through dress up play there are no limits imposed upon a child’s imagination and anything is possible! Dress up and pretend play is one way children learn to be storytellers. They retell and reenact stories which is one of the first steps towards literacy. 1. Keep it Simple Pretend play areas do not need to be elaborate or complicated. Authentic adult clothes and shoes, animals,...