New Blog Design and a Freebie!

I love my new blog design.  A million thanks to Barb at Ruby Slippers Blog Design.  Here are my top 10 reasons I loved working with Barb:

1.       Barb is a great listener.

2.       Barb has a wealth of experience and design sense.

3.       Barb gives great suggestions.

4.       Barb is SO patient.

5.       Barb’s design prices are very reasonable.

6.       If Barb does not have the element you want… she creates it.

7.       Barb’s turnaround time is very quick (about a week).

8.       Barb is tenacious about making sure the customer is happy. 

9.       Barb is super quick at sending proofs and returning emails.

10.    It is delightful to work with Barb! 

Now for the freebie.  I really needed a small pocket chart (desk top size) to use with the little ones that I tutor.  They are still struggling with some of the harder Fry's words (words 50-100).  I wanted to play two highly engaging games because sometimes they are a little distracted.

Game 1:  Find the Hidden...

• The teacher places a number of words (25-30) in a pocket chart.
• Then one special icon card is hidden behind one of the words.  (The kids eyes are closed - in theory!)
• The students guess a word by reading it. 
• The teacher lifts the word card to see if the special icon is hiding there. 
• The winner is the child who reads the word that is hiding the special card.

The kids love the game!

Game 2:  BAM!

• Words or letters (depending on the age of the students) are placed in a bag.
• The bag is passed around and the student pulls out a word or letter card.
• If the child can name the letter or read the card, he/she keeps the card.
• If the child can not name or read the card it goes back in the bag.
• There are 3-4 "BAM!" cards in the bag.  If a child pulls a BAM, the game is over.
• NOTE:  For smaller groups just put the cards in a pile and the 3-4  children just draw from the top.  Same rules and game play apply.  

Here is my file with:
1)  High frequency words.
2)  Seasonal items to hide behind the words.
3)  Bam! cards.

Also, my husband and I made this table top pocket chart frame and pocket chart.  The whole thing - stand and pocket chart cost less than $10.00.  If you'd like the directions just let me know.