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Mini-Maracas

Materials

film canisters or other small plastic containers with lids

items that make a noise (sand, small pebbles, paper clips, beads)

glue

Instructions

1. If possible, invest in or borrow an I-zone camera. This is a small camera
made by Polaroid that takes small (1" x 1 1/2 ") instant photos. Take a head
shot of each child.
2. Use double-sided tape to fill an 8 1/2 " x 11" sheet of paper with the small
photos of the children.
3. Make as many color copies of the small photos as you can.
4. Post the little photos along with the child's name throughout the
classroom. For example:
* Put the photo under the child's artwork when it is displayed it on the
wall.
* Tape photos on cubbies and above coat hooks.
* Use photos to save work in progress throughout the classroom.
* Place the photos in the circle time area to show children where to sit.
* Use the photos to make a "waiting list" for favorite materials or
activities.
* Laminate two sets of photos for children to use for matching games.
* Use them to make name cards. Glue the child's photo on an index card
and write the child's name in large letters. Laminate. The children can
use them as a guide when they want to try to write their names.
5. You will be surprised by how many uses you can come up with for these
little pictures.

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