Circus

   During the week we explore the Circus we do so unique things to our room. We hang our parachute from the ceiling to make it look like the "big top" tent. I usually try to hang mine over my circle area because that is where most of our circus learning activities take place. As a special week end treat we have peanuts in the shell and popcorn (which should be noted are choking hazards, so watch each child carefully), and paint the children's faces to look like clowns.

Art: In art we work on making animal cages for our play dough animals, using empty milk cartons and popsicle sticks. After the glue dries we let the children paint their cages, and you have great 3D art to display. We made clown noses using paper egg cartons cut into individual sections, punched holes in each side and used yarn to tie around head. We also made clown hair-cut out the center of a paper plate, so that it fits on top of the child's head, glue yarn around the edges.

Housekeeping: In housekeeping we make sure we have lots of "new" (not recently used) dress up clothes and let the children pretend they are clowns or other people in the circus, or are people going to see a circus. Wigs are great fun too!

Math and Manipulatives: To this center we add some file folder games that use clowns or circus themes to teach skills.

Circle: Under the "big top" I put a basket of bean bags and encourage the children to juggle the bean bags. This is a great gross motor skill.

Videos: Barney Live! In New York City -after intermission has circus theme

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