Materials:

• drawing materials including oak tag paper, pencils, crayons, and markers
• collection of photographs of children that documents events and projects from the program year
• glue sticks
• colored plastic tape
• chart paper

Developing Skills:

• language
• creative thinking
• fine motor
• math
• social development

ACTIVITY

On the top of a sheet of chart paper, write the heading, "Our Favorite Memories." Show children photographs of various events or learning experiences they've enjoyed throughout the year to help stimulate their recollection. Ask them to share their favorite memories and record their comments on chart paper.

Inform children that they will make a "quilt" to document their memories. Explain that they can either draw a picture or find a photograph, and write or dictate information about it. Invite small groups to the art area to work on their quilt squares. Offer them the suggested materials and make sure that everyone uses the same size paper.

Mark off a space at the bottom of each paper where children can write or dictate their memories. Remind them to draw above the writing space. Make photocopies of photographs in the event that more than one child decides they want to write about the same picture. Include "memories" from teachers, substitutes, volunteers, and any other individuals who were part of your classroom community.

After everyone completes his memory drawing and description, bring children together to share their work. Encourage them to ask questions and engage in discussions to note similarities and surprises.

Lay out the quilt on a large floor space. Help children figure out how many pieces to place in each row so that the pattern will be even. They may need to add a few extra pieces to even out the rows. Then use long strips of colored plastic tape to connect each piece and row. Find an area on the wall to hang the quilt. Include the initial language experience chart in the display. Invite families to view the creation and to share their memories, too.

Remember: If some children are having difficulty identifying a favorite memory, you may need to show them photographs or share your own memories of their special achievements.

Curriculum Connection: SOCIAL DEVELOPMENT

New Transitions. Plan time to help children prepare for upcoming transitions. If possible, take a trip to their new classrooms or neighborhood schools. Consider inviting a teacher and a few students from a new class to visit. Discuss any changes that will take place if your program runs during the summer, or what children will do during summer vacation.