In all my years of teaching I have to say some of my best activities haven't been planned but happened spontaneously! Sometimes I have an epiphany in the car on the way to school, I see a cardboard box, material I found at home or at school, or the students will inspire an idea! The trick is not to worry about the "theme" you are teaching but the experience of learning you are modeling for your students ! Great teaching can't be found on TPT, or Pinterest! You can get inspiration from them but the meaningful learning experience come from you, the questions you ask, the level of enthusiasm you bring, and your knowledge of developmental learning! We are all individuals who learn differently. Each activity you do should reflect your students prior knowledge and development and interest!
So many teachers teach to a theme and spend hours and ink replications that are not that meaningful to children! I used to be one of them! In my opinion and experience it's a waste of time and ink! The more dimensional and sensory learning is the more students are going to remember the experience! This quote inspired me to share my thoughts!
