It is coding time in the library. Don’t get me wrong, coding sites, activities, and robots are available all year long. The Learning Resources mice and Botley are great to teach beginning coding. The simple commands and grid like movements mean all students are successful.   Last year I found the Qubo robot. The puzzle cards make it possible for all students to code. i have classes for three day s in a row; I teach the students to use the free play mode after they have used the puzzle pieces. It is just that in the spring I bring out the big guy, DASH. The variety of apps provide students with different learning experiences. I focus on using the Wonder app. However, the students have to use the Free Play or the ??? option. I tell them we have other options for simple coding and DASH is not a remote control. You must code!   The free play is perfect for all my learners. The image icons and simple arrow for connecting the code mean that no reading skills are required. Once again, creatin...
Number Path Games We had a parent workshop last week. Our math coach presented number paths to the parents. Since I have been in the media center for four years, that was a new term for me. I did what I do  best, I learned about it.  Here’s what I learned: I realized that I was using number paths when I taught kindergarten and first grade, I just needed to learn the phrase Number Path. They are a counting tool and help students recognize numbers, one-to-one correspondence, and more.  I  created them using Carson Dellosa accent pieces or sticky notes. I had file folder games with a path of numbers for counting. I taught math with games when possible.  As an educator I am always learning new things. I enjoy this part of my job, so much that I will learn about Math, even when I am in the library right now. :)  For more information check out The National Association for the Education of Young Children article....