b usy b oxes : n ot j ust b usy w ork presenter pam morris
TRANSCRIPT
BUSY BOXES:NOT JUST
BUSY WORK
Presenter Pam Morris
BUSY BOXESMedium-sized box or bag that contains premade activities created to stimulate the minds of children of a specific age
and developmental level.
WHO…CAN USE THEM??Children can use busy boxes or busy bags •Individually•Peer Partners•Small Groups•Large Groups
HOW…TO USE BUSY BOXESChildren can use busy boxes or busy bags •individually where the child chooses, manipulates, and completes a self chosen box or bag.•with a peer partner, tutorial partner, or volunteering partner who works together on a collaboratively chosen box or bag.•within a small group where the teacher may be reinforcing a new skill or concept. He/she may choose to utilize a “busy box” activity in a small group environment. Retrospectively, the box may be added to individual or partner boxes later.•during large group instruction under the supervision of their teacher. It may be used to introduce a new skill or concept.
WHAT…TO USE IN BUSY BOXES items that are age appropriate items that are of interest to children items that can be used independently
without assistance items that can be manipulated quietly items that can be easily cleaned up by
children items that are open-ended items that are inexpensive and easily
replaceable
WHERE…TO USE BUSY BOXES OR BAGS
At the student’s table or desk On a carpet At a chosen “quite place” At a small table Outside At home as a “take home” activity
This can really depend on the activity and the students and teachers personality.
WHEN AND WHY… SHOULD BUSY BOXES OR BAGS BE USED
Use busy boxes or bags at a scheduled time, perhaps 15 to 20 minutes intervals.
Use busy boxes to introduce old skills or reinforce old ones.
Use busy boxes to strengthen grip and enhance finger control.
The benefit of these exciting little boxes or bags is designed to stimulate their little minds and develop fine motor skills.
Remember NOT to over use busy boxes or bags.
“KIDOODLE” BASKETS(ALSO CALLED PROP BOXES)
o Group alternative to busy boxeso Can be used within small groups, with a
partner, or indiviauallyo Can be designed to reflect holiday/seasonal
themes, specific content areas, or children’s literature
VARIATIONS TO BUSY BOXES
Discovery Bottles
File Folder Games
Busy Bags
Magnetic Trays
NOW…
Let’s get
Busy