What is it about the letter Z that kids love so much? It's such a random letter. Buzz and fuzz are funny words, zebras and zoos are pretty awesome, and zippers are totally fun to play with so I guess it makes sense. I think they love this letter so much because it sounds so silly. Teaching the sound z-z-z- was even making me laugh.
One of my favorite z activities is letting the kids pretend to go to sleep and snore (whaaa zzzzzz…. whaaa zzzzz…. whaaa zzzz). They think it's hilarious and I get to hear some pretty original snores.
A few years ago my daughter was afraid to go to sleep. She said, "Those zzzzz's are out to get me! They freak me out!" She was pretty convinced they floated around her head at night just like in cartoons. On my long list of children's books to write, this is at the top. Wouldn't it make a really great story? Anyway...
The plan for today was to quickly color the Z print as our morning starter. Just something to occupy the group while we waited for all our friend to show up. The kids took charge and decided to turn them into zebras. They know where all the supplies are and got to work. I love when plans change and creativity sets in. And I'm no dummy. I know who really runs the show here. I just show up and provide the goods and let them do the rest.
One of my new favorite finds for printable worksheets is at Preschoolmom.com • I recently started having my class use her letter of the week printable. I love that they focus on both upper and lowercase. I'm always on the lookout for new and improved and this sight has a lot of great materials.
I can see so much improvement with everyone. Especially fine motor skills. Just look at Henry hold his crayon! I've been working with him all year and without me even helping him, he is doing it by himself. SUCCESS! This just made my week.
xoxo-
