The things we learn at teacher workshops

Every teaching workshop is different but they all have a way of inspiring you to go back into the classroom and try something new…

I try to attend local workshops any chance I get, and at times, I even get invited to come and speak.  Today, I thought I would share some photos of my latest workshop held in Southern Indiana this past weekend…

Each time I am invited to speak somewhere, I practically change what I want to say or share on the drive over.  Well, not totally, but I do give myself room to just go with the flow and share what I find to be important when it comes to teaching young children…

For the most part, this workshop was all about defining the intelligent classroom and the concept of STEM.  I also brought some hands-on materials for the teachers to check out…

The photos that you are viewing today were taken by my friend and Fellow Blogger, Casa Maria’s Creative Learning Zone. She took many photos of the things we shared during the workshop that I thought I would share with you today…

Water Beads

I brought a small container of water beads for the teachers who had not yet tried them out. I just love these and if you want to know more about water beads then just click here.

I also demonstrated the process of making a “Cloud in a Jar” with the teachers.  You can learn more about that process by clicking here

In addition, I brought one of my store bought light tables to demonstrate different items you can explore on a light table like ice pops and rice. You can read more about light table activities by clicking here...

We also made a sample of slime for the teachers to see the process and feel it for themselves. You can see more about slime by clicking here or by clicking here

I also introduced our magnetic can play set which you can read more about by clicking here

I also introduced the magnetic board which you can view here and a variety of DIY magnets to try on the board which you can view here

And I brought a couple of bags of M&Ms so we could do a little M&M Painting.  You can see how to make M&M paint by clicking here

It is always hard for me to decide what to bring when I present a hands-on workshop with teachers. There are so many things I just love!!

I can’t end this post without sharing with you a few of the most creative door prizes  I have ever seen at a workshop. These prizes were put together by the hosts of this workshop….

Outdoor Play Basket

Who wouldn’t want to walk away with a basket of noodle blocks and hula hoops?  There may have been more stuff underneath too but I didn’t dig through!

DIY Drum Set

And these little drum sets were handed out to every teacher along with a spoon for drumming up your own tune!

Cardboard Tube Blocks

And the grand prize was super special.  Three large bags filled with these amazing heavy duty cardboard tubes.  These folks really know how to recycle and find gems for their classrooms.  As soon as I got home, I went on a search for my own set of these tubes and found a few but I have to keep looking.  I will share with you more about these tubes once I get a collection together…

I hope you have enjoyed this mini-version of my Teach Preschool workshop!

Deborah J Stewart

Deborah J Stewart

Every time I think I know everything I need to know about teaching young children, God says, "Hold on a minute!" and gives me a new challenge.

Let me tell ya...

With each new challenge that you overcome, you will find yourself better equipped and more passionate about teaching young children.

God didn't call wimps to lead, teach, or care for His children. Nope, he has high expectations, so get ready. You will have to give your very best but after teaching for over 30 years, I can tell you that it is a wonderful and rewarding journey.

Whenever your calling feels hard, just remember, 'He who began a good work in you (and in the children you serve) will be faithful to complete it.'

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