Anecdotal Records

Over the years I have had to record anecdotal records for my classes. Some curriculums provide their own format while others leave it up to the teachers. Our school currently uses Tools Of The Mind. Since they don't offer their own system of keeping anecdotal records, we use the online anecdotal system offered by Teaching Strategies. It is an excellent way of keeping track of each child's progress. However it is impossible during the course of a busy preschool day to drop everything and run to the computer. So I created my own version of the file folder method.



The folders can be purchased anywhere. I found the sticky notes at Dollar Tree. At the bottom of each note I will write each child's name. During the day it will allow me to jot down quick notes which I can then later transfer to the online form. The notes can be replaced as needed very quickly. The folder is easy to carry around the room and can provide easy access for me, or my paraprofessional, to note special moments during the day.



The folder cover can be found here.

Shamrock Hunt

As most teachers know, the dollar store can be our best friend. I purchased this set of foam shamrocks two years ago and they're still going strong. Every year, prior to St. Patrick's Day, we have a fun little activity that we do each day. Before the children arrive, I hide the shamrocks around the room. As the children arrive I challenge them to find one of the shamrocks and place it in a basket we have set aside. Sometimes they find all of them fairly quickly and sometimes we have one or two that remain unfound. I will offer hints as to where they might be and only when the children have given up do I find it for them. In the past we've had parents, other teachers and even the principal join in the hunt. I've included a photo of the shamrocks and a free copy of the sign we post on the door. Happy hunting!



I was in my local Dollar Tree last week and they still sell this set.



Leprechaun and shamrocks courtesy of