Sunday, February 21, 2010

Tot School

Tot School

Here is my first official blog post of our Tot School. I don't know if it is because she is the third, but Daphne doesn't get a lot of playtime just for her. We play, of course, but Daphne usually joins in on what the big girls are doing. I am trying to make our playtime more intentional so I am hoping that posting weekly Tot School pictures will help.

I haven't given Daphne any crayons yet so I thought this week would be a good week to start. On Thursday, Norah and Lucy broke up some of our old crayons and sorted them by color. We lined a muffin tin with cupcake liners and added the old crayons. I melted the crayons in the oven at 350 degrees for about 5-7 minutes. Once cool we peeled off the cupcake liner, and Voila! We had chunky crayons for Daphne.

I put Daphne in her booster seat and gave her a couple of crayons and paper. Of course, Daphne first tried to eat the crayon. Then she basically banged the crayons on the tray. It was a fun first try!!
We read/sang the Wheels on the Bus.
This week we played with blocks. The girls dumped the wooden blocks out for Daphne and did a great job of letting her explore the blocks before they started building. Daphne basically just turned them in her hands, banged them together, licked them, chewed on them and dropped them back in the bucket. Once Norah, Lucy and I started building, Daphne squealed with delight as she knocked over our towers.

I am trying to figure out how to fit this "intentional" playtime that is totally focused on Daphne into our normal day. Obviously, Daphne gets lots of attention and playtime during the day, but like I said before I want some time that is focused on her.

If you are interested in learning more about Tot School check out this blog. You will find TONS of really great ideas for toddlers of all ages.

6 comments:

Our Little Family said...

First of all, what a beautiful family!! And second, I hope you're able to find something that works out for your family. I only have one daughter, so I can't offer any ideas. Although, I know that posting on Tot School definitely helps me make sure that I'm allotting a certain amount of time to Maddie (if any of that makes sense! I'm really tired! Ha!).

Love the homemade crayons. I always pick up cheap shaped trays at the Target dollar spot and make crayons in them!
-Jill

Catherine Dreher said...

Great idea about the crayons! It's sweet that the bigger girls are involved.

Anonymous said...

What a great first week! I only have one child and I can only imagine its hard to be intentional with your time with her :-)

Kylie said...

Welcome to Tot School. You will find your groove, especially as she gets older.

Lana said...

I love the crayon idea!

Kate said...

Welcome to Tot School. Xander still just bangs the crayons too, I can't wait for that first "drawing". At this age they just love knocking down those towers!