SHOP

Cooking up Morning Fun!

So, in my little school, our kiddos are allowed in our building at 7:45. School for us doesn’t begin until 8:05 and most of the time our announcements don’t start until 8:10. If there isn’t something for my students to do, then this can lead to chaos. In the past I’ve either had them silent read (which we know isn’t silent) or do a worksheet. I wanted something new. I also wanted something that allowed for more choice, and that students who came in 2 minutes before the bell rang, could at least start without having to take it home unfinished, because there would be something new the next day.  So I came up with a morning menu.  
This set will cover August and September. 
(I’m going to be working on October and November soon) 
There are 41 activities based on the first grade common core standards. 
They are reading, writing and math based activities. 
I plan on putting them in this:
I have one for each table. Each morning I’ll put the basket on their tables. As students come in they will choose an activity and get to work. There will be some kiddos who need you to read the directions, but for the most part, once they are started it is pretty independent. They will complete the activities in their morning work notebook.  I am going to make two menus for each basket. If you don’t have tables, or like choosing the activities for your kiddos, you could just display one card each day.  These cards would also be great just to use for when students finish activities early.
 I put the activities on a ring so if a student wants to use their card as they work, they can be easily removed and others at their table can look for an activity.
 Some activities require another slip of paper to complete. Like in the picture above. I put those papers in the small envelopes below.
You can purchase it by clicking below.
I know a lot of you have purchased my Helpers. I have them available for K-Grade 2.
People are using them in many ways, but I wanted to show you exactly how I use them.
I print the two pages on regular printer paper.
 Then I put them front to back.
I insert them into a laminating sheet.
 And this is what it looks like when it’s complete. My kids put them in their chair pockets and get them out a thousand times a day for everything they need. They are a great tool and teacher timesaver.
You can get the first grade helper here. It also includes a link to a version with an editable word wall. Hope you all are having fun gearing up for the new school year.  SO MUCH TO DO!!!
 
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Michelle Oakes

Wife, mom of 2 boys and a bulldog, reading specialist, Target frequenting lover of fashion, home decorating, Cincinnati girl.

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21 thoughts on “Cooking up Morning Fun!”

  8. I love this idea and will be getting these to use. I use to do four stations ( worksheet, games, computer and journals) which they would alternate for four days, Friday was free choice. It worked pretty well but the kids would be so disappointed if they were late and missed computer time and so it became an issue and I finally stopped. This will be so great and align with the standards. Love it.

    Reply

  11. OMG! This is ah-mazing! What a great idea! I will definitely be purchasing these for my kiddos..thanks for sharing 🙂

    Sarah
    teachingiscolorful.blogspot.com

    Reply

  20. WOW those are so cool, i have added them to my wish list on TPT. Love seeing what ideas you come up with.
    I have my own laminator too, make life so much easier.

    Cheers from Angela in New Zealand

    Reply

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