Workboxes can be pretty!!

Just wanted to share with you what I did with my workboxes.  I'm using the sterilite drawers system for my workboxes.  I'm still using my task cards as well.  I just put them into the drawer with what they have to work on.  I cut some scrapbook cardstock to the size of the drawerfronts and added a little decoration to them. 

Just wanted to share a pretty way to brighten up your workboxes.

:)

~Mary~

© Copyright, Lizards and Ladybugs 2009

Some New Finds Added to the Learning Room......

I went to Target last week and grabbed some things from the dollar isle.  I got these small pocket charts and knew just what I wanted to use them for.  I am using them for the boys to hold their spelling lists for the week.  That way they can glance at the words all week and help cement the looks of them into their heads.

My daughter has a phonics chart

I also added a pretty border around my chalkboard using scrapbook cardstock and cutting it to the width that I wanted.

I made my small shelf dedicated to most of my art supplies.  I have TONS of art supplies and not all could fit here.

I have a crazy obsession with adhesives.  I'm afraid I'll run out. :)

Also, don't rule out, or overlook great spots in your home or learning room.  I needed to add a computer to so I would have two.  I needed for my kids to be able to use them at the same time.  But, I was low on space.  My room is getting pretty full.  So I used a bookcase as a laptop center.  If you look in the first picture, you'll notice how it's a nice little computer area.

Space to store the printer, extra reams of paper and other curriculum that I need handy.  The picture is of my father whom I lost a couple of months ago.  I keep his picture where I can see it often.  It's almost like he's with me.

This is on the back of the door.  It holds the calendar and the clock.

So that's my added items to the room.  I wanted to share it with you to give you some ideas you may not have thought of.  Have a great day!

P.S.  Doesn't it seem that there are always half naked toddlers in your pictures. :)

© Copyright, Lizards and Ladybugs 2009

Chalkboard Paint Review

So, for awhile now I've been wanting to replace my whiteboard with a chalkboard.  I personally think that chalkboards are better to have.  Whiteboards leave "ghosting" marks after being erased.  If the kids don't put the caps back on the markers tight enough they dry out.  Also, the Expo markers get pretty darn expensive!


So, I finally decided I wanted a chalkboard for the learning room.  I priced boards online and found that for the size I wanted to match my whiteboard it would cost about $200.  For a chalkboard!


Enter hubby.  I told him my desires and about the Rustoleum Chalkboard Paint that Home Depot sells.  He informed me that he might be able to paint right over my whiteboard instead of buying separate wood for the board.  I was thrilled because I love the size of my board.  He did in fact paint right over the slippery surface of my whiteboard by first using three coats of a primer called Gripper Paint Primer.


They sell smaller cans of it at the store.  So, three coats of the primer later he applied three coats of the chalkboard paint.  Let dry for 3 days to cure and then prep your new chalkboard surface.  Do this by using the side of your chalk and rubbing it all over the board.  Erase well and then write!  Wah la!

I also added a nice blue carpet from the Home Depot.  Brightens up the space a little doesn't it?!

© Copyright, Lizards and Ladybugs 2009

Color Coded Multiplication Table

 Here is a printable download of a color coded multiplication table that I created.  My son was having some trouble with everything seeming to blend together, so I made him this colorful one to separate the facts.


Enjoy! :)





~Mary~







© Copyright, Lizards and Ladybugs 2009