This NPR-ED article states that bias “isn’t just a police problem”…It’s a preschool problem. Read on…(click graphic, below)

How can a very simple nuts-and-bolts activity be developmentally meaningful for a young child? So many benefits…read on.

First, our thanks to Yohanna Ruger, UMA student from Tigard, Oregon for creating this sensorially appealing (and beautifully simple!) Practical Life activity. Notice there were no plastics used here. Even the tray is made of wood.

So, what are the developmental benefits?

DIRECT:

• Order
• Hand-eye coordination
• Concentration
• Independence
• Self confidence

INDIRECT:

• Preparation for writing (pincer grip)
• Preparation for reading (left-to-right sequence)
• Learn to attach and remove a screw to a bolt!

​Here’s a great article entitled:“The Most Powerful Way to Love A Child”

Written by Janet Lansbury, inspired by the research and wisdom of Magda Gerber.

​A long article but worth reading all the way through. (click photo for full article)

Here’s a great idea shared by Sharlene Neill, UMA student from Roseville, CA. Handmade, creative, and inviting!

Supplies and construction:

1. Wood picture frame with glass and hardware removed
2. Quilt fabric (with hand–sewn buttons) glued onto frame
3. Strips of ribbon glued onto edges (suggestion: tac the corners/edges for extra security)
4. Fabric scraps cut into various slitted shapes, buttoned onto quilt​

Presentation:
“The buttoning frame is on the shelf with the shapes already buttoned from the last child. They will use two careful hands to walk it to the table. They will then unbutton the shapes placing each one on the table. After all the shapes are removed and placed on the table, the child then chooses where they would like the shapes to be buttoned back on the frame. The buttons vary in size. So children can choose what size they are comfortable with or try one a little more challenging.”Thank you Sharlene for sharing!