Teaching sign language is a wonderful fine motor skill. My Y5's picked it up quickly and loved learning how to say new things.
I also taught them a few songs, and although I didn't have them learn all of the letters of the alphabet, most of them enjoyed learning how to spell their names at the beginning of the year.
For Mother's Day I thought it would be fun to design a card around this lovely language and to teach children how to spell MOM in sign language.
There are many great sign language sites. I have two favorites: Favorite #one, Favorite #two. ( Click on the links to check them out.)
It's wonderful to be able to see someone demonstrate the sign, and the alphabetical listing makes things easy and quick to find words.
I hope you enjoy making this card and teaching your students how to say "I love you Mom!" Check out the sites if you want to have them say "Happy Mother's Day!"
I have received tons of positive feedback from parents about this aspect of their child's learning. I know it will be a hit for you too!
Click on the link to view/download the Mother's Day Sign Language Card Templates
Mother's Day Gift Ideas:
If you're like me, you're probably wondering where on earth April flew off to, and thinking what should I do for Mother's Day that will soon be here!
I wanted to help children realize all the things busy mommies do for them, so that they could truly understand and appreciate their mom and why Mother’s Day is such a special Day; so I designed an easy reader with that idea in mind and followed it up with a blue ribbon-"craftivity" that students can make for their moms as a special card.
Start by having a discussion. Ask your students what things their moms do for them and what are their favorites. Make a list of them on the board and see if they can think of a symbol or picture that would represent that task.
From a 5-year-old's point of view, here are some of the things my Y5's thought of: cooking, cleaning, doing the laundry (washing & ironing), helping with school work, taking me places, taking care of me when I’m sick or hurt, buying me things, doing things with me (listening to me), reading stories to me and my mom loves me (hugs me and kisses me goodnight!)
After the discussion, pass out the booklets.
Students TRACE the words. They find the matching pictures and CUT and GLUE them to the correct numbered boxes in their booklet.
When everyone is done, read the booklet as a whole group a few times, ‘til everyone is able to read it independently, so they can take it home and share it with their moms. What a wonderful gift that will be!
You can make the booklet even more of a keepsake by including their school photo; have students glue it over the clipart boy or girl.
When you’re done with the reading activity have students make the blue ribbon card for their mom. Remember to have them sign their name under the “I love you."
Click on the link to view/download the Mother’s Day: Thanks For All You Do booklet and blue ribbon activity.
Scroll down for another Mother's Day idea: Teaching your students how to sign "I love you!"