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There are so many fun ways to make a sensory bin! How you create yours is entirely up to you! Whether you want to craft a fidget board, a multi-sensory bin, or a glittery masterpiece, this is your time to shine! Let’s get creative and play! What Are the Benefits of a Sensory Bin? Kids have different sensory needs! Some children love the feel of a towel, while others prefer the smoothness of silk. Exploring your child’s sensory preferences can help you understand how they see the world. It can also be super helpful in identifying what might upset them, especially if they have sensitivities. Did you know that young children, especially those aged 12 to 18 months, are like little scientists? They are eager to explore their surroundings! Understanding what your child enjoys is crucial. Helping them explore their senses is vital for their growth and development! Fun Add-Ins for Your Sensory Bin! Here are five exciting sensory bin add-ins you can use in your next creation: Hot Glue Melts : Grab some hot glue and pour it onto cardboard. Make sure an adult handles this task if your child is young! Once it dries, it’s perfect for nail tapping! Fidgets : Fidgets are fantastic for developing fine motor skills, which are essential for young children. Explore different types to see which ones your child enjoys! Some kids love fidgets that make noise, while others prefer silence. Examples include fidget spinners, fidget cubes, and pop-its! Fabric : Different textures can help you discover what types of clothing might make your child uncomfortable. Try using denim, cotton, silk, or towels to see what they prefer! Essential Oils : For children who can handle scents, essential oils can be grounding and help you figure out what fragrances they like best! Slime : Although it can be messy, slime is a fantastic tool for exploration! Just be sure that if your child is young, they don’t put it in their mouth, as some slime ingredients can be toxic. Why Sensory Play Matters Sensory play is not just fun; it’s crucial for development! Engaging in sensory activities helps children build cognitive skills, enhance motor skills, and improve social interactions. When kids explore different textures, smells, and sounds, they learn about their environment and how to express themselves! Creating a Safe Sensory Environment Safety is key when setting up a sensory bin! Always supervise young children during play. Ensure that all materials are non-toxic and age-appropriate. If you’re using small items, keep them away from children who might put things in their mouths. Tips for Engaging Sensory Play To make the most of your sensory bin experience, here are some tips: Encourage Exploration : Let your child dive in! Allow them to touch, feel, and explore without restrictions. Ask Questions : Engage your child by asking open-ended questions. For example, “How does this feel?” or “What do you think will happen if we mix these two things together?” Join the Fun : Get involved! Play alongside your child. This not only makes it more enjoyable but also strengthens your bond! Conclusion: Let’s Get Sensory! Creating a sensory bin is a wonderful way to support your child’s development while having a blast! So, gather your materials and let the fun begin! Remember, the goal is to explore and enjoy! Note: The author of this article, Samantha Kilburn, is an elementary education student and not a professional. This article is the result of her learning in class and application to the real world. Let’s make sensory play a part of our everyday adventures! Happy exploring!

Kimberly’s Way with Words was written by Connie Colwell Miller and Illustrated by Helena Perez Garcia. There are two different publishers. One publisher is the Creative Company. This version was published on January 14, 2025. The other publisher is Amicus Learning, which was published January 1, 2025. The book explores different ways of communicating, covering a sweet story about a non-speaking Autistic girl named Kimberly who is getting groceries with her mom. In the book, Kimberly attempts to communicate with her favorite cashier in American Sign Language. He does not understand so Kimberly’s mom gives her an AAC, which stands for an Augmentative and Alternative Communication device. This device looks like an iPad and uses buttons to speak words out loud. Kimberly presses the buttons to communicate with the cashier and eventually resolves a conflict she has with the flavor of lollipop he gave her. In terms of representation, this is a great book to show multiple forms of communication to children. It is also a lovely book that features kindness toward disabled people, which is not always common when a person tries to communicate alternatively. I could see this book being used in the classroom setting to explain nonverbal communication and other languages, alongside Autism and communicative devices.

My Life with Tourette Syndrome was written by Mari Schuh and illustrated by Ana Sebastian. It was published on August 8, 2023 by Amicus Learning. Similarly to My Life with Diabetes, one of the previously mentioned book reviews, this book follows an informative and storytelling pattern, explaining that the protagonist has a condition called Tourette Syndrome. The book explains what her symptoms are, in this case involuntary movements and sounds known as tics, and how they affect her. It explores the social pressures, what makes tics worse, and how to respond to someone with Tourette’s respectfully. Overall, I think this a great book for explaining Tourette’s to a classroom of students. I could see it being used with 3rd graders through 5th graders. One part of the book that I love is the focus on how the protagonist is not different in a negative way.

My Life with Diabetes was written by Mari Schuh and illustrated by Ana Sebastian. This book was published on July 15, 2023 by Amicus Learning. The book is informational but it is also a story. It goes through some of the symptoms of diabetes, including how the young girl found out about her condition. It explains that the child gets insulin through a pump and that she needs to check her blood sugar often. Although the main focus of the book is diabetes, the author does a good job of focusing on the protagonist's life separate from her condition. It explains all the activities she can still do, like being in science class with her peers. It also explains that the child loves art and gymnastics. Overall, I believe this is a great book for older elementary schoolers to help them understand diabetes.

When A Kid Like Me Fights Cancer was written by Catherine Stier and illustrated by Angel Chang. It was published on September 1, 2019 by Albery Whitman and Company. A later edition was released in 2021. When A Kid Like Me Fights Cancer is about a young child who got diagnosed with cancer. It follows a similar writing pattern of, “I have learned…” throughout the book, explaining what this young child is realizing about cancer. Initially not knowing what the word “cancer” means, the child begins to understand that this is something he has to fight alone. Overall, I think this book is a beautiful representation of how cancer does not change who the young boy is. It is a part of him; something he has to fight, but not something that controls him or changes him fundamentally. I loved the representation of feeding tubes, child life specialists, and various races in this book. It is a developmentally appropriate way to explain cancer to first graders and second graders. I especially loved that it was based on a true story from the Co-Founder of the National Pediatric Cancer Society, Melissa Helms. This book shows the true dedication of suffering parents, turning pain into purpose, the beauty of community, and the resilience of a small child.

The holiday season often brings images of laughter, gifts, and warm family gatherings. For many children, it is a time filled with excitement and joy. Yet, not every child experiences the care-free magic of winter. Some face challenges that make the holidays difficult or even painful. Families struggling with financial hardship, family conflicts, hospitalization or childhood illness, or inadequate living conditions can find the season overwhelming. This post explores these challenges with a hopeful perspective and offers practical ways to bring light to children and families in need. By understanding these struggles and taking action, we can help make the holidays brighter for everyone. Understanding the Challenges Some Children Face During the Holidays Financial Hardship and Lack of Toys Many families cannot afford toys or gifts during the holidays. The pressure to provide presents can be stressful, especially when basic needs like food and shelter are uncertain. Children in these families may feel left out or disappointed when they see peers receiving gifts. Similarly, children in the hospital, foster care, or group homes may not receive many gifts or have someone to play with them. Family Problems and Divorces The holidays can highlight family tensions or the absence of loved ones. The disruption of family traditions can make the season feel less joyful and more confusing. Barriers to Heating and Warmth Winter brings cold temperatures that can be dangerous for families without reliable heating. Some homes are cramped and poorly insulated, making it hard to stay warm. This physical discomfort adds to the emotional strain of the season. Unhoused families in cold places may struggle and get very sick. Ways to Spread Kindness and Support This Holiday Season Despite these challenges, the holiday season offers many opportunities to bring joy and hope. Small acts of kindness can have a big impact on children and families facing difficulties. Volunteer Opportunities Through Volunteer Connect Volunteer Connect is a wonderful platform that connects people with local volunteer opportunities. It makes it easy to find ways to help in your community, whether you have a few hours or more time to give. Here are some meaningful ways to get involved: Prepare a Home-Cooked Meal Cooking and sharing a meal can provide comfort and show care. Places like the Ronald McDonald House sometimes accept home cooked meals, depending on the location. Unhoused shelters often accept (and need) food. Donate Gifts to a Children’s Hospital or Facility Hospitals often have wish lists for children who must spend the holidays in care. Donating toys or books can brighten a child’s day and bring smiles during a difficult time. Donating handwritten cards to nursing homes, hospice facilities, and veteran's hospitals can also be a kind way to spread joy. Spread Kindness in Small Ways Simple gestures like a smile, delivering baked goods, or helping neighbors with decorations can spread the holiday cheer. How You Can Make a Difference Organize a Gift Drive Gather friends, family, or coworkers to collect new toys, books, or warm clothing. Coordinate with local charities or hospitals to ensure your donations reach children who need them most. Support Local Shelters and Charities Many organizations rely on donations and volunteers during the holidays. Check Volunteer Connect for opportunities near you and consider donating time or resources. Educate Yourself and Others Understanding the struggles some families face helps build empathy. Share stories and information to raise awareness and encourage more people to get involved. Blog or Write About Struggles Being open about struggles during the holidays can raise awareness and foster a sense of belonging. Start blogging or writing on Substack. Read Diverse Children's Books to your Children EduAndYou has lists of diverse children's books to read to your kids, alongside book reviews. Exploring struggles, differences, and uniqueness is a great way to foster empathy and kindness. Resist The Urge to Brag You may have gotten the most expensive, shiny gift, but some kids didn't get anything. It is okay to talk about being grateful for your gifts, but do not shove it in other people's faces or brag about your families money. The Power of Kindness During the Holidays Every act of kindness, no matter how small, contributes to a more caring community. When we reach out to support children and families in need, we help create memories filled with hope and joy. The holiday season becomes a time not just for receiving but for giving in ways that truly matter. By volunteering, donating, or simply spreading kindness, you can bring light to those who need it most. This December, consider how your actions can make a difference. Together, we can bring joy to every child and build stronger, more compassionate communities.

The Girl Who Thought in Pictures: The Story of Dr. Temple Grandin  was written by Julia Finley Mosca, illustrated by Daniel Rieley, and initially published on August 29, 2017 by The Innovation Press. A later version of the book was published on March 5, 2019. This book is a rhythmic and playful overview of Dr. Temple Gradin’s life. It showcases her life from birth until becoming a successful scientist and speaker, highlighting the uniqueness of her Autism, supportive family life, resilience, and intelligence. In The Girl Who Thought in Pictures: The Story of Dr. Temple Grandin began her life as a sensitive and hot headed child that was unable to speak until age three. After unnamed therapies with specialists she was able to develop verbal language. Following this Temple entered school where she was unfortunately bullied. She was eventually kicked out for her retaliation against the bullies. Following Temple’s expulsion she began working on her aunt’s farm where she fell in love with the animals. Soon enough she was a revolutionary inventor that changed the farming industry, a world-renowned speaker, an award winner, and a college graduate. The book uses rhyming to give it a childlike affect, but despite the book being centered towards children, I have found it to be an inspiring and beautiful tale on resilience for all ages. This young child who suffered so severely from bullying and struggled with outbursts became a revolutionary scientist, showing grit and a passion for changing the world. Overall, I was impressed by the rhyming pattern, the ability to adapt the book in a developmentally appropriate way, and the plot line. I enjoyed how they made Temple a strong character, and I especially loved the highlight of being, “different, not less.”

Hey there, are you looking for children's books on disabilities to read to your elementary schooler? What about activities to do this winter to support creativity, fine, and gross motor skills? Well, if so then you're in luck! December's Book Review Focus A large portion of upcoming book reviews will be on children's books about disabilities, including neurodiversity and mental health conditions. From autism to epilepsy, explore a variety of children's books that can support diversity in the classroom, home, children's hospital, and childcare settings. EduAndYou will also be posting newsletters with extra resources for disabilities this month. It's a Winter Wonderland But wait, that's not all! Due to the winter holidays and season coming up, EduAndYou will be posting resource lists, blog posts, and newsletters for children's books, activities, and arts and crafts that you can do with your child or student this winter. With a focus on diversity, it is important that every child can see themselves this season, and that includes children that do not celebrate any holidays. So, buckle up, sign up for our newsletter, and get ready for som new material this December. Oh, and remember to go on adventures, learn, and stay curious! Happy winter and holidays to those that celebrate, EduAndYou

What is The Mermaid With No Tail? The Mermaid With No Tail  was written by paralympic gold medalist Jessica Long, illustrated by Airin O’Callaghan, and published by St. Martin’s Essentials / Sounds True. It was published on September 26, 2023.  Inspired by Jessica Long, this insightful book described the challenges a young mermaid with no tail fins faced and, importantly, overcame. In the book the protagonist was adopted by turtles and fell in love with swimming. Her goal was to win the largest mermaid race, but no one thought she could do it because of her disability. Despite this, she hired a shark who put her to work, teaching her to value her strengths and look at what she does have, not what she doesn’t. This young mermaid went on to win the race, her parents and coach watching with pride. Review The Mermaid With No Tail sends a beautiful message to disabled children and adults alike. It speaks to the strength disabled people have, the challenges of stigma, and the choice to overcome what people believe about disabled individuals to succeed beyond what has been thought to be possible. There are many parts of this book that I love. To name possibly my favorite aspect, I am truly inspired by the strength-based representation of disability in this book. The protagonist is told to look at her strengths, in this case her arms, and use them to empower her. I believe this sends a strong message about disabled people being strong, whether that is physically, mentally, intellectually, emotionally, or all of the above. In fact, The Mermaid With No Tail alludes to the young mermaid’s strength being even greater than her able-bodied peers, showing that disabled people can surpass expectations and stigmas, and do the same exact activities that able-bodied individuals can. Another part of the book that I enjoyed is the loving parents. In The Mermaid With No Tail, the young mermaid is raised by supportive turtles. This brings up two thoughts for me: 1. The acceptance and encouragement of the child’s disability is very important, and 2. The mermaid is fortunate to have a loving family, and may not have succeeded in the same ways without this family. Now, why do I say that the mermaid is lucky to have a loving family and might not have succeeded in the same ways without this support? My reasoning is that every child needs love and disabled children often have barriers in getting the support they need. In the real world families may not have the funds to support the child’s medical needs, the school system might not be able to support that child’s needs, or they may not get the same chances at education. This raises an important point about how future educators such as myself can support disabled children in every setting. Diverse children’s literature can represent children of all types. Although strength-based disabled representation is rare in children’s books, we as future and current educators, parents, and caregivers have a responsibility to help all children feel seen. Whether they have no legs, they are a person of color, a child in a 2SLGBTQIA+ family, or another minority, they deserve love, respect, and compassion. EduAndYou seeks to provide this through resources, book reviews, newsletters, and more, inspiring young and old minds alike to be compassionate and inclusive souls. After all, disabled people are everywhere. They are our friends, our family members, our peers, our children, our coworkers, etc… We may not always see their disability like we see the missing tail, but we have a duty as a society to respect these individuals, empower them, and treat them the same as we would treat anyone else. So, let me ask you this, what is the future of your classroom, house, or childcare setting going to be like? Would you put this book on your shelf? What is stopping you from being as inclusive as possible towards disabled children? If you were a disabled child wouldn’t you want to know you were just as strong as your friends? Together we can foster a kind and inclusive environment where all children can thrive. It starts here at EduAndYou. It starts one diverse children’s book at a time.

Hey educators, college students, and parents! If you’re curious about a fresh, diverse way to dive into education, you’re in the right place! Today, I’m going to walk you through the EduandYou platform, which is a fantastic resource designed to make learning accessible, fun, and meaningful for everyone involved in early childhood and elementary education. Whether you’re a parent, a future educator, or just someone passionate about helping young minds grow, this platform has something special for you. Ready? Let’s jump right in! EduAndYou Overview: What Makes It So Special? Let me begin by telling you why EduAndYou stands out from other education platforms. It’s not just another website that's grabbing for your attention. This platform is thoughtfully crafted to support early childhood and education majors, parents, and children alike, and it's all built from a student with a passion for helping others. What truly sets this site apart is that EduAndYou focuses on inclusivity and accessibility. It aims to reach underrepresented communities, such as neurodiverse or disabled children. Through the power of children's literature, creativity, and play, EduAndYou offers insightful tips for learners, educators, and parents. Here’s a quick peek at what you can expect: Engaging content tailored for young learners and future educators. Practical resources for parents to support their children’s development. Tools and tips for education majors to enhance their teaching skills. Now that you know a little bit about EduAndYou, let’s dig deeper! What is the Purpose of EduAndYou? Now, you might be wondering, what exactly is the purpose of EduAndYou? Great question! We seek to provide educational content, diverse children's literature, and resources for all individuals working with children. EduAndYou’s purpose is multi-layered: Support Early Childhood Development The platform offers age-appropriate content that nurtures curiosity and foundational skills in young children. We plant the seeds of learning through poetry, creativity, and representative literature. Empower Parents, Educators, and Education Majors. Parents, educators, and education majors get access to tools and tips that help them actively participate in the child’s education journey. Promote Inclusivity By focusing on underrepresented communities, EduAndYou promotes inclusivity and fosters a space where all children can see themselves through literature. This purpose-driven approach makes the platform not just useful but truly impactful. How Does EduAndYou Work? A Simple Breakdown Okay, so how do you actually use EduAndYou? Here’s a quick guide to get you started: Step 1: Sign Up and Explore Create a free account to access the online courses, or view the content directly on the site without making an account for free. Step 2: Engage with Content Read articles and try out activities designed to make learning fun and effective. If you enjoy them, consider offering a testimonial to support EduAndYou! Step 3: Track Progress Keep an eye on your learning journey with easy-to-use tools that help you stay motivated and organized. the best part is you can access EduAndYou anytime, anywhere. It's perfect for busy schedules! Why Early Childhood and Elementary Education Matters and How EduAndYou Supports It Early childhood and elementary school are such a critical times for development. The experiences kids have during these years shape their future learning, behavior, and health. That’s why platforms like EduAndYou are so important. They provide the right tools to make those early years count! Here’s why early childhood education is awesome, and how EduAndYou helps: Brain Development : The brain grows rapidly in early years. EduAndYou offers activities that stimulate cognitive skills like memory, problem-solving, and language. Emotional Growth : Understanding feelings and managing emotions sets the stage for success. EduAndYou provides poetry prompts for socio-emotional learning. Creativity and Play : Playing and being creative is vital at every age. EduAndYou provides fun activities that assist children in learning and having fun at the same time. By focusing on these areas, EduAndYou helps build a strong foundation for lifelong success. Growing Together: The Future of Learning with EduAndYou The world of education is always evolving, and EduAndYou is dedicated to represent every corner of it. Its commitment to accessibility and quality content means it will keep expanding its resources, especially for those who need it most. Imagine a future where every child, parent, and educator has the tools they need to succeed. Image every disabled child feeling accepted and seen through the books on your shelf. Imagine a place where learning is inclusive and empowering. That’s the vision EduAndYou is working towards. So, why not take a peek at EduAndYou today? You might just find the perfect resource to spark your next big learning adventure! Thanks for sticking with me through this deep dive! Remember, education is a journey, and with the right platform, it can be a fantastic one. Stay curious!

Are you an educator, parent, or caregiver searching for creative ways to get your child or student involved in the outdoors? Well, you're in luck! Here are 5 creative ways to encourage your elementary schooler to play in nature. Ready? Let's get started! Paper bag books. Grab a paper bag and fold it into a book. Use a pocket from the natural bag shape to go outside and have the child gather nature, then have your elementary schooler write a story about the items they have collected on the other pages of the book. The "capture what you see" game. Have your elementary schooler capture every nature item they see on a camera, then go home and print them out. Have your child make a collage out of the photos. If they have favorite TV series, game, or movie characters then print them out too to add into the collage. Treasure hunt. Get a variety of small prizes or heartwarming notes and place them outside in a park or your backyard. Draw a map for your child and go on a treasure hunt! Pirates. Craft an eye patch out of paper or felt and go outside with your child. Pretend to be pirates on a sinking shape by balancing and hopping on one leg. This game may be best suited for young children working on gross motor skills. Have races using unique ways of walking, or make an obstacle course out of sticks and small rocks. If your child is super crafty, build a boat out of cardboard. Make a shape out of nature. Go on a hike or somewhere where there a lot of small rocks, sticks, or other objects. Have your child make their favorite animal, character, or person out of these rocks. Alternatively, make a maze or obstacle course. Note: The author of this article, Samantha Kilburn, is an elementary education student and not a professional. This article is the result of her learning in class and application to the real-world.

Play and create on a budget! Your local library may have free or discounted resources for playing, depending on where you are and what library it is. If you have ever wanted to get creative with your kids but you don't have a lot of resources, this blog post is for you! Here are three creative activities to do with kids on a budget from elementary education major and artist Samantha Kilburn. The "I Am" Game. Get ready to be everything - a monster, a princess, a tiger, a knight. It's your usual game of pretend, right? Wrong! Here's the twist: You and your child have to grab a piece of paper and draw or write about that character, and then the other person becomes them. For example, tell your five-year-old to draw something. When they're done, become that character. Grab a pink hat to represent the pink hair of the creature, a scarf to be the tail, and a looooooooonnnnnnnnngggggggggggggg stick to be the master staff. Then your child becomes what you drew, and you play a game of pretend together. Resources: Paper, markers, pens, crayons, or pencils, and household items that fit into the game of pretend. The Folding Message Game (for older children). Fold a piece of paper into thirds and write a message for them going down the page word-by-word. When you get to the fold, write one word below it that fits into your sentence and give it to the kid not allowing them to see the first third of the page. Your sentence does not have to end at the fold. Have the kid do the same thing on the next fold, and repeat into you run out of room. Then unfold the paper and have a good laugh! Resources: Paper, pens, pencils, markers, or crayons. A smile! Clay Rings (With a Twist!) If your child can model clay, take some air dry clay and make each other a ring for your finger. The twist is, you have to make the ring into your favorite animal. Think of the features of that animal and get to building! Resources: Air Dry Clay.