10 ways to use a birthday chair in the preschool classroom

Last year, I came across this little chair only it was white and a little beat up. So I cleaned it up and painted it bright yellow to create my own little birthday chair for the preschool classroom…

The Birthday Chair by Teach Preschool

In one of my latest discussions with fellow bloggers, the subject of my little birthday chair came up. Jackie from My Little Bookcase sent over some creative ideas for how to use my little birthday chair in the classroom that I thought you might like to read too. I will throw in a few photos of my little birthday chair in action to go along with Jackie’s suggestions….

Ten ways to use a birthday chair in the preschool classroom

by Jackie Small

Using a birthday chair in the preschool classroom is a wonderful way to make a child feel very special on their birthday. But, a birthday chair can be much more than merely a piece of furniture; it can be used as a tool in a range of very simple but empowering learning activities that could help children to practice their literacy skills, develop their confidence, or learn to praise the talents of others. Here are 10 simple ideas you could implement in your classroom.

The Birthday Chair by Teach Preschool

Speaking and Listening

While the birthday child is sitting the birthday chair, the other children can….

1. Sing ‘Happy Birthday!’

2. Take turns to ask the birthday child questions about home and family.

3. Classmates can take turns giving the birthday child warm and fuzzy compliments.

4. During circle time, the birthday child can sit on the birthday chair and lead the children in a song of their choice or play a special birthday instrument.

5. The birthday child can sit on the birthday chair for a special Show and Tell session.

The Birthday Chair by Teach Preschool

READING

6. The birthday child can choose their favourite book from the library and sit on the chair to ‘read’ the book to the class, or take them on a picture walk through the book.

WRITING

7. During the session, each child can draw a special picture for the birthday child on a post-it note, and stick it to the birthday chair. They can also write their name on the note. The birthday child can take the birthday notes home at the end of the day.

8. The birthday child can sit on the birthday chair during the session to complete any writing tasks. One possible task is to invite the birthday child to record a journal entry by drawing a picture to represent their day.

Rainbow blocks artwork, Math color boxes 059

SOCIALISING/CO-OPERATION

9. The birthday child can sit on the birthday chair during snack or lunch time.

10. The birthday child can sit on the birthday chair during circle time. He/she may help the teacher with particular tasks (e.g. turn the pages in a book, hand out documents or supplies etc.)

Compiled by Jackie Small

Jackie is an experienced classroom teacher. Currently on family leave, she spends each day in the company of her two enthusiastic children. Jackie also manages My Little Bookcase, an online resource that aims to model and provide parents and educators with fun and positive ways to engage their children in literacy-building activities.

Birthday Chair

Visit Teaching 2 & 3 year olds blog to learn more about the birthday chair and how she celebrates children’s birthdays in the classroom!

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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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