Donna Vasquez

Activity Book for Kids Ages 4-8 9-12 Donna Vasquez

In this book you will find lively games and practical tips that you can use with elementary-age children anytime as pick-me-ups to counter tiredness or bad moods.

The level of the games' difficulty gradually increases over the course of the book. With a few exceptions, the games at the beginning are easy enough for first-graders, while the ones at the end are more appropriate for nine- or ten-year-olds. However, almost all the games can easily be modified for different ages. The games are listed in alphabetical order at the end of the book.




Helpful Ways to Change the Pace

The best way to prevent tiredness and to keep energy reserves filled is to have plenty of variety in your lessons. Here are some pointers:




When preparing your lesson, remember to use as many different group-size formations as possible: whole group, small groups, pairs, and individuals. Switch off teaching and learning materials, even if it takes time. At the end of the day, it will be worth it if the children are still paying attention. Use different seating arrangements; try to sit in a circle more often, and occasionally move the class outside. Invite "guest teachers" to come talk to the class (e.g., parents, grand-parents, police officers, the mayor, or any other specialists whose ex-pertise may be useful). Create surprises and moments of amazement for the children. Never overstuff the children, but instead make them hungry for new knowledge.




Key to the Icons Used in the Games




To help you find activities suitable for a particular situation, each one is coded with symbols or icons that tell you some things about it at a glance:




The size of the group neededIf props are requiredIf music is requiredIf a large space is neededIf physical contact is or might be involvedIf the activity involves going outdoors

These are explained in more detail below.