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Crystal Clear OR Creatistics PVA Washable School Glue

2. WOODEN HANGING FRAME

Perfect for home, Dad’s office, the tool shed, or garden shed, Wooden Hanging Frames are perfect for children to decorate and add their own style. Use paint, patterned, paper, markers or embellishments to personalise and then add a photo or drawing to each of the different-sized frames. When your paint and glue has dried, each square frame is ready to be strung together using the handy pre-cut holes.

TO MAKE DAD ROSETTE

Fold paper square into 4 lengths and cut along each fold – you will have 4 x long rectangle lengths
Fold each rectangle length into a paper concertina (fold the strip back and forth along the length of the paper).
Repeat for all 4 lengths of paper
Glue the ends of the concertina sections to each other, alternating paper pattern. You will now have 1 long concertina.
Bring 2 edges of the concertina together and glue in place to make a circle
Cut two lengths of patterned paper into ribbons and apply glue to the top, attach to the back of the rosette.
Cut a circle out of carboard, smaller in diameter to your rosette.
Using a metallic marker, write #1 Dad, BEST DAD AWARD, or desired quote
Use a thin permanent marker to trace around the metallic letters for crisp & clear lettering
Apply an even layer of PVA glue to the back of the cardboard circle and lay it over the front of the concertina circle, apply pressure to the layers while drying (laying a book over the rosette will help it to dry flat).
When dry, attach to the frame with a good dab of PVA glue

*TOP TIP – Low melt Hot Glue Guns will glue the rosette components together quickly for older age groups, or educators.

Featured products;

Blue Gingham Paper Roll

A4 Coastal Cardboard 220gsm

Hanging Frame

Pattern Paper Squares

Creatistics Strong Craft Glue

Creatistics Superstick Glue Stick

Metallic Markers

3. LATTE MUG

Whether Dad is gearing up for a big day ahead, or ready to relax after a long day, a personalised Latte Mug will be Dad’s go-to favourite cup! These beautiful mugs are supplied as plain white, providing the perfect canvas for children to decorate and personalise with drawings and messages to remind Dad how loved he is.

To set the markers and paint for wear & tear and dishwasher use, the mug will need to be baked in an oven. Set oven to 150 degrees C, once oven temperature has been reached, bake mug for 30 minutes, turn the oven off and allow to cool before removing. Dad’s mug is now ready for his favourite hot beverage.

*TOP TIP – Paint provides great overall coverage of colour, while porcelain markers provide precise detail.

Featured products;

Latte Mugs

4. DAD ROCKS

Painting rocks is a simple and fun craft idea that’s recently become popular the world over – with this adorable Father’s Day version sure to delight! You’ll want a smooth and clean stone, thick acrylic paint and heavy-duty markers to decorate your Dad Rocks. A few base coats of paint will provide the ideal surface on which to draw a likeness of Dad, a positive message on the back or a funny rock-themed quote – be as creative as you like! A coat of PVA glue or Crystal Clear will provide a protective surface for general wear and tear. Dad’s rock is now ready to find in a treasure hunt, to brighten the garden path or to keep loose papers secure as a desk paperweight. Dad will always know he rocks!

*TOP TIP – A quick wash with warm soapy water before decorating will give a clean surface for paint and markers to adhere to your rocks.

Featured products;

Story Stones

Thinline Permanent Markers

Acrylic Paint Introductory Set

Crystal Clear OR Creatistics PVA Washable School Glue

5. FATHER’S DAY CARDS

DIY Father’s Day cards make light work out of present making – perfect for children to use a wide range of open-ended materials in imaginative ways to make something just right for their Dad. A thoughtful and loving message inside the card will be something Dad will hold in his heart forever. If you’re feeling like some creative card inspo, have a read on to follow the step-by-step guides to making a Dad Shirt card or a Patty Pan Award card.

DAD SHIRT CARD – Step by Step

To make the shirt front, apply glue to the front of the card and lay it onto the back of the gingham paper (the white side)
Cut away excess paper
To make the tie, select your desired colour of patterned paper and cut into a tie shape (narrow at the top, wide at the bottom with a V shape)
Glue tie in the centre of the shirt front card
To make the collar, apply glue to a length of cover paper and lay it onto the back of the gingham paper (the white side) and cut away excess to make your desired collar size
Fold the 2 sides of the collar length around to make the front corners of your collar (this is where the buttons will go)
Glue buttons in place onto the shirt front
Decorate the inside of the card with drawings and messages
Your card is ready for Dad!

*TOP TIP – To make the collar lengths apply glue stick to an entire piece of cover paper and lay onto the gingham paper, you will then be able to cut multiple strips of collars at the one time.

PATTY PAN AWARD CARD – Step by Step

Cut a circle out of coloured cardboard
Draw or write your message for Dad using markers
Cut patty pans into quarters
Glue sections of patty pans onto the back of the cardboard circle to form the Rosette (experiment with colour patterns, or multiple layers)
Cut 2 lengths of coloured paper or cardboard & cut an inverted V shape into the lower lengths to form the Rosette ribbons
Attach you ribbons onto the back of the rosette with glue
Apply a layer of glue to the back of the finished rosette and press down firmly onto the card
The inside of the card can be decorated with drawings and messages too!
Slot your card into the supplied envelope and it’s ready for Dad!

*TOP TIP – The front of the card where the patty pan award sits can also be decorated with paint, drawings or coloured paper for an extra splash of colour!

Featured products;

White Cards and Envelopes

Pastel Assorted Buttons

Blue Gingham Paper Roll

Pattern Paper Squares

Creatistics A4 White Cover Paper

Large Coloured Patty Pans

A4 Coastal Cardboard

Metallic Markers

Thinline Permanent Markers

6. SHRINK FILM BOOKMARKS

With just a few supplies and a lot of imagination, these handy bookmarks are super simple to make, and will remind Dad how special he is with each turn of a page.

To make, simply cut a length of clear shrink film or printable shrink film ) (one sheet of shrink film makes 4 bookmarks). Draw or write your design onto the matt side using coloured pencils or markers , use a hole punch to make a hole for threading the string later on – and then you’re ready to bake! Pre-heat the oven to 150 degrees C. Place design on a lined tray (matt side up) and bake. The plastic will begin to shrink after 10 seconds. Remove from the oven once the plastic has flattened and set tray aside to cool completely before handling.

To make the beads, roll small chunks of silk clay or paper magiclay ( in the palm of your hand) to form small beads. Poke each bead with a skewer all the way through, making sure the hole is wide enough to thread cord or string through and then set aside to dry for 24 hours. Use a length of strong string (or leather cord ) to tie through the punched hole, add some of your colourful beads and tie off with a coloured tassel . Your personalised bookmark will mark reading places proudly!

*TOP TIP – Coloured pencil markings go a long way once shrunk in the oven; a very light shading is all that’s needed for bright vibrant colour!

Featured products;

Clear Shrink Film (Each sheet of clear film paper makes roughly 2 car hangers).

White Printable Shrink Film

Jumbo Coloured Pencils

Lyra Giant Skintone Pencils

Thinline Permanent Markers

Candy Colours Paper Magiclay

Paper Punch One Hole

Porcelain Flower Pot OR Terracotta Plant Pot

Assorted Colour Tassels

7. CERAMIC PLANT POT with PLANT LABEL/STAKE

Plants truly are the gift that keeps on giving! Whether your Dad would like a spiky cactus to decorate his office or a tasty bunch of herbs to spice up his cooking, he’ll no doubt love a personalised plant to keep him thriving.

These adorable ceramic plant pots make the perfect vessel to decorate with glass & ceramic paint and porcelain markers. We’ve added a little shrink film plant label for further personalisation, which makes the ideal tag to jot down the care instructions for Dad’s plant.

*TOP TIP – Paint provides great overall coverage of colour, while markers provide precise detail.

Featured products;

White Printable Shrink Film

Jumbo Coloured Pencils

Clear Shrink Film

Thinline Permanent Markers Assorted Pack

8. WOODEN HOME FRAME

Home is where the heart is, and what a beautiful home these wooden frames make! The sturdy surfaces of the wooden frames are ideal for all sorts of personalised decorations including open-ended Father’s Day essentials or silk clay . When your frame has been decorated and thoroughly dry it’s ready for a photo, drawing or special message to be added into the frame. You’re then ready to slot the wooden stand into the back of the frame so it can sit proudly on Dad’s desk where we’re sure it will stay forever!

*TOP TIP – Remember to add the date to the back of your Home Frame so Dad can remember what year it was when he looks back at his treasured memories.

Featured products;

Wooden Home Frame

Silk Clay Kit

Candy Colours Paper Magiclay

Father’s Day Craft Essentials

9. AIR DRY CLAY DECORATIONS

These sweet decorations will bring a smile to Dad’s face every time he sees them. For younger children, the design can be kept straightforward and simple lettering, with older age groups adding complexity to their designs with messages, carving decorations or clay beads.

To make, simply roll out a slab of air-dry clay and use cookie cutters or free-form tools to cut out your desired shape. Set aside to dry for 24 to 48 hours on a flat surface. Meanwhile, to make the beads, roll small chunks of clay , silk clay or paper magiclay in the palm of your hand to form small beads. Poke each bead with a skewer all the way through, making sure the hole is wide enough to thread cord or string through and then set aside to dry with the decoration. When the clay is firm to the touch it’s ready for painting. When your decorations are dry once again, they’re ready for stringing together – remember to tie them off well to keep those beads from rolling away!

*TOP TIP – The thicker your decorations are, the sturdier they will be able to withstand general wear and tear. A few coats of PVA glue will also provide strength to your decorations for added longevity.

Featured products;

Creatistics Air Dry Clay Ceramic Clay – (one packet does about 8 little hands)

Creatistics PVA Washable School Glue

Silk Clay Kit

Candy Colours Paper Magiclay

https://www.teaching.com.au/product/white-eco-paper-cups-8oz-8211-pack-of-50

Whether it’s a Dad, Grandpa, Stepdad, Brother or a cherished father figure you’d like to spoil, MTA has you covered with all sorts of treasures waiting to be personalised with your love.

*All these activities can be modified and adapted to suit different age groups, taking away small parts for children under 3 years of age and replacing them with larger safe parts. Where scissors are used, educators may use adequate supervision to suit the needs of the children or offer pre-cut shapes. Where glue guns are used, educators may substitute with a safer alternative such as washable PVA glue.

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18/06/202419/06/2024

7 STEAM-tacular activities to celebrate sports

If you’re looking for ways to make STEAM education as thrilling as a sprint to the finish line, you’ve come to the right place. We’ve crafted seven hands-on activities that will have your students thinking like engineers, creating like designers and competing like champions – inspired by the spirit and excitement of sport!

Each activity is a blend of creativity, teamwork and scientific exploration. You’ll have your students calculating trajectories, experimenting with physics and learning about the principles of design – all while having a blast. Ready to ignite the torch of curiosity?

Get your game face on. It’s time to teach, learn and play like champions!

1. High jump STEAM activity

Using nothing but paper cups and rubber bands, participants will engineer their own innovative solutions to launch cups to impressive heights, combining creativity and physics in this engaging hands-on experience.

You’ll need:

Eco Paper Cups

Geoboard Rubber Bands

https://www.teaching.com.au/product/rubber-bands-for-geoboards-240-pcs

Glue-on Eyes

https://www.teaching.com.au/product/large-glue-on-eyes-3-sizes-8211-pack-of-300

Gloss Coloured Paper

https://www.teaching.com.au/product/gloss-paper-circles-18cm-8211-pack-of-360

Strong Craft Glue

https://www.teaching.com.au/product/creatistics-strong-craft-glue-118ml

Scissors

Let’s make it!

1. Use scissors to cut two slits into the paper cup rim, roughly 1 cm in length and 1.5 cm apart. Repeat this step directly across from the other two slits. You’ll now have two ‘notches’ to hold the rubber band. This is your high jump contestant.

2. Decorate your high jump contestant with coloured paper, markers etc. Finish off with two glue-on eyes and set aside to dry.

3. Place your contestant on the table in front of you with the opening facing you. Take a rubber band and loop it around one of the notches, twist once and loop around the other notch.

4. Take another cup, turn it upside down on the table in front of you.

5. Gently slide your high jump contestant over the other cup. Hold on tight! You’ll feel the resistance of the rubber band wanting to let go.

6. Let go of the top cup and watch it jump up high!

Done! Your high jumper is ready to compete.

*TOP TIP – Experiment with the different sized rubber bands (diameter and thickness) to experiment with different tension levels, finding the perfect balance between elasticity and power to propel your athlete to greater heights with precision and control.

2. 100 m dash STEAM activity

Step up to the starting line with the 100 m dash challenge! Using simple materials like packing tape rolls, wooden dowels and paper straws, create feet that’ll sprint their way to the finish line! Decorate your runner in team colours, mark out a course… take your mark, get set and go!

You’ll need:

Wooden Dowels

https://www.teaching.com.au/product/teachergeek-accessories-8211-dowels-8211-300x5mm-8211-set-of-50

Multi Cutter

https://www.teaching.com.au/product/teachergeek-8211-multi-cutter-only

Clear Packing Tape (or thick cardboard to make a tube)

https://www.teaching.com.au/product/sellotape-packaging-tape-757-48mm-x-75m

Paper Straws

https://www.teaching.com.au/product/assorted-paper-straws-8211-pack-of-500

Coloured Paper (QL90190)

https://www.teaching.com.au/product/hot-amp-cold-coloured-paper-a4-80gsm-8211-pack-of-500

Sticky Tape

https://www.teaching.com.au/product/sellotape-pack-tape-dispenser-2-rolls-tape

Scissors

Let’s make it!

1. On coloured paper, draw the outline of shoe prints (or trace your own shoes or feet). Use scissors to carefully cut out the shapes.

2. Place the two shoe prints in front of you like you would to put on a pair of shoes. Cut a paper straw in half and tape one straw half to each foot, roughly 1/3 of the way down the foot just below the big toe. The other two straw ends will stick out in the middle of the feet.

3. Cut a wooden dowel in half to make two short wooden dowels. Tape one end of each dowel to a roll of packing tape’s inner tube. Make sure the dowels are at opposite ends of the inner tube (you can also make your own cylinder tube from strong cardboard, PVC pipe off cuts etc).

4. Slide the two paper straws over the dowels (sticky tape side facing down). Give the roll of tape a gentle push and watch those feet run!

Done! Your athlete is ready for the 100 m dash.

*TOP TIP – For optimum performance, ensure the feet are securely taped to the straws, and the wooden dowels securely attached to the packing tape roll to avoid wobbling during the dash, guaranteeing a smoother race experience.

3. Swimming race STEAM activity

Students craft their own aquatic athlete using a plastic take away container, wooden dowels, rubber hands and pop stick paddle, immersing themselves in the principles of engineering and fluid dynamics as they compete in epic swimming challenges.

You’ll need:

Plastic takeaway container (rectangle)

Wooden Dowels

https://www.teaching.com.au/product/teachergeek-accessories-8211-dowels-8211-300x5mm-8211-set-of-50

Thick Rubber Bands – size 35

https://www.teaching.com.au/product/teachergeek-accessories-8211-dowels-8211-300x5mm-8211-set-of-50

Thin Rubber Bands – size 14

https://www.teaching.com.au/product/rubber-bands-size-14-100gm

Jumbo Pop Sticks

https://www.teaching.com.au/product/jumbo-pop-sticks-8211-pack-of-100

Multi-cutter

https://www.teaching.com.au/product/teachergeek-8211-multi-cutter-only

Joggle Eyes

https://www.teaching.com.au/product/large-glue-on-eyes-3-sizes-8211-pack-of-300

Permanent Markers

https://www.teaching.com.au/product/permanent-markers-bullet-tip-assorted-colours-8211-pack-of-12

Tacky Glue

https://www.teaching.com.au/product/tacky-craft-glue-8211-125ml

Let’s make it!

1. Using a thick rubber band, wrap two wooden dowels onto the takeaway container, one on each side. Wriggle the rubber band in place towards one end. Place another rubber band on the other end of the container binding the dowels in place for balance.

2. Wrap a thin rubber band around two ends of dowel to hold the paddle.

3. To make a paddle, use the multi-cutter to shorten a jumbo pop stick to roughly 6 cm in length (a few notches cut into the middle on both sides will help guide winding too). Place the paddle in the middle of the thin rubber band and wind around and around, tightening the rubber band. Hold on tight! You’ll feel the tension of the swimmer ready to go!

4. Gently place the swimmer into the water, let go and off it goes!

Done! Your swimmer is ready to compete.

*TOP TIP – For improved stability and streamlined motion, balance the weight distribution of your swimmer by adjusting the positioning of the wooden dowels and pop stick paddle, optimising performance and reducing drag for a faster swim.

4. Yacht regatta STEAM activity

Using an array of simple construction materials, participants will engineer their own miniature floating boats, competing in an exciting regatta that blends imagination with hands-on craftsmanship. Let’s set sail!

You’ll need a variety of loose parts for children to assemble. Choose from:

Aluminium Foil

https://www.teaching.com.au/product/foil-roll-with-dispenser-44cmx150m

Coloured Cover Paper

https://www.teaching.com.au/product/coloured-cover-paper-a4-120gsm-8211-pack-of-500

Cork Sheet

https://www.teaching.com.au/product/cork-sheet-8211-30x25x0-2cm-8211-each

Glue Gun

https://www.teaching.com.au/product/mini-glue-gun-8211-low-temperature

Strong Craft Glue

https://www.teaching.com.au/product/creatistics-strong-craft-glue-118ml

Masking Tape

https://www.teaching.com.au/product/sellotape-masking-tape-18mm-x-50m

Paddle Pop Sticks

https://www.teaching.com.au/product/paddle-pop-sticks-coloured-8211-pack-of-1000

Paper Cups

https://www.teaching.com.au/product/white-eco-paper-cups-8oz-8211-pack-of-50

Rubber Bands

https://www.teaching.com.au/product/rubber-bands-size-14-100gm

Sponges

https://www.teaching.com.au/product/durafresh-scour-8216-n-8217-sponge-8211-pack-of-5

Sticky Tape

https://www.teaching.com.au/product/sellotape-pack-tape-dispenser-2-rolls-tape

Washi Tape

https://www.teaching.com.au/product/washi-tape-arty-8211-set-of-8

Wooden Dowels

https://www.teaching.com.au/product/teachergeek-accessories-8211-dowels-8211-300x5mm-8211-set-of-50

Magiclay

https://www.teaching.com.au/product/paper-magiclay-candy-colours-8211-240g-pack

Take away containers (rectangular and circular tubs)

Plastic bottles

Scissors

Let’s make it!

1. Gather your materials – you’ll need an array of construction items to create the three main components of your boat – a base (hull), a mast and a sail.

2. Use a glue gun or strong glue to adhere the components together. Set aside to dry.

3. Test your boat by placing in water and watching it float. Adjust the sail and weight distribution as needed to improve stability and speed.

Done! Your boat is ready to complete in the yacht regatta.

*TOP TIP – For optimal performance, ensure that the weight distribution of your yacht is balanced by adjusting the placement of materials, to allow for smooth sailing and maximum speed during the regatta.

5. Shot put launcher STEAM activity

Crafted from a few simple supplies, the cardboard roll shot put launcher is sure to be a hit. It combines the thrill of physics and engineering principles. Students will dive into concepts like force, trajectory, and energy transfer as they experiment with different-sized inner tubes and launch all sorts of projectiles—table tennis balls, pom-poms, polystyrene balls, and more.

You’ll need:

Wooden Dowel

https://www.teaching.com.au/product/teachergeek-accessories-8211-dowels-8211-300x5mm-8211-set-of-50

Multi-cutter

https://www.teaching.com.au/product/teachergeek-8211-multi-cutter-only

Rubber Bands – size 14

https://www.teaching.com.au/product/rubber-bands-size-14-100gm

Assorted Cardboard Tubes

https://www.teaching.com.au/product/cardboard-tubes-assorted-8211-pack-of-60

Cardboard Rolls

https://www.teaching.com.au/product/cardboard-roll-8211-pack-of-36

Masking Tape

https://www.teaching.com.au/product/sellotape-masking-tape-18mm-x-50m

Large Cotton Balls

https://www.teaching.com.au/product/cotton-wool-balls-100g

Neom Pom Poms, assorted sizes to experiment

https://www.teaching.com.au/product/neon-pom-poms-assorted-sizes-8211-pack-of-150

Large Pom Poms

https://www.teaching.com.au/product/pom-poms-assorted-colours-38mm-8211-pack-of-50

Table Tennis Balls

https://www.teaching.com.au/product/school-table-tennis-balls-pack-of-6

Polystyrene Balls

https://www.teaching.com.au/product/polystyrene-ball-8211-white-8211-38mm-8211-pack-of-10

Single Hole Punch

https://www.teaching.com.au/product/paper-punch-one-hole

Teacher Scissors

https://www.teaching.com.au/product/westcott-20cm-titanium-point-non-stick-scissors

Let’s make it!

1. From the assorted cardboard tubes, take the second largest size OR use scissors to cut a regular cardboard tube lengthways (CL9821), squeeze the two loose edges over each other, overlapping to make a thinner tube. Tape to hold in place.

2. Use the single hole punch to punch two holes into the thinner tube opposite one another, roughly half an inch from one end.

3. Cut a wooden dowl in half and push through one hole, through the middle of the thinner tube until the dowel’s ends sit evenly out both holes.

4. On the largest sized assorted cardboard tube (or regular cardboard roll) cut two slits into one end of the tube roughly 1 cm long and 1.5 cm apart. Repeat this step on the same end, directly across from the other two slits. You’ll now have two ‘notches’ to hold the rubber bands.

5. Insert the narrow tube into the larger tube – the notches at the top of the large tube and the smaller tube with the dowel poking out the bottom.

6. Loop a rubber band into one of the ‘notches’, pulling the rubber band down the outer side of the tube and loop over one of the ends of the dowel. Repeat this step with another rubber band on the other side of the cardboard tube.

7. Hold your launcher with the dowel at the bottom and place a cotton wool ball in the top of the launcher so that it rests just on top of the narrow tube.

8. You’re ready to launch! Gently pull back on the dowel so that the inner tube extends out the back of the launcher and aim…

9. Release the dowel and watch the cotton ball fly!

Done! Your shot put launcher is ready to compete.

*TOP TIP – Foster creativity by decorating your launcher with paint, markers or embellishments – compete individually or together with team colours!

6. Basketball shootout STEAM activity

Create a thrilling basketball shootout game with pop sticks, a wooden spoon and rubber bands. Challenge your friends to hit the paper cup basket while exploring the concepts of force, angles and trajectory. Let the friendly competition begin – may the best engineer win!

You’ll need:

Jumbo Pop Sticks

https://www.teaching.com.au/product/jumbo-pop-sticks-8211-pack-of-100

Rubber Bands – size 14

https://www.teaching.com.au/product/rubber-bands-size-14-100gm

Eco Wooden Spoons

https://www.teaching.com.au/product/eco-wooden-spoon-160mm-8211-pk-100

Eco Paper Cups

https://www.teaching.com.au/product/white-eco-paper-cups-8oz-8211-pack-of-50

Table Tennis Balls

https://www.teaching.com.au/product/school-table-tennis-balls-pack-of-6

Polystyrene Balls

https://www.teaching.com.au/product/polystyrene-ball-8211-white-8211-38mm-8211-pack-of-10

Masking Tape

https://www.teaching.com.au/product/sellotape-masking-tape-18mm-x-50m

Small cardboard box

Let’s make it!

1. Place two jumbo pop sticks together, one on top of the other, and secure together with a rubber band roughly 2 cm from each end.

2. Slide an eco-spoon over the top of the two joined pop sticks, roughly halfway down, and under one of the rubber bands to hold it in place. Make sure the spoon is facing up to hold the ball.

3. Take seven more jumbo pop sticks and stack them on top of each other. Secure both ends with rubber bands, roughly 2 cm from each end.

4. Hold the two pop sticks with the wooden spoon in one hand and use the other hand to slide the seven-pop stick stack under the spoon and jamming it between the two pop sticks. Secure in place with another band if needed.

5. Use masking tape to adhere a paper cup to a small cardboard box and place in front of you nearby. You’re ready to shoot your basketball! You can also add multiple cups to a larger box with score points for an even more challenging shootout.

6. Place a table tennis ball on the spoon and gently pull the spoon back, aim and shoot!

Done! You’re ready to compete.

*TOP TIP – Experiment with different balls to launch including large pom poms or 3.8 cm polystyrene balls to see which go higher and longer. You can also add multiple paper cups to a larger box, adding points to score depending on which ‘basket’ your ball lands in.

7. Balancing gymnast STEAM activity

Discover the fun of physics as students craft a balancing gymnast using only pop sticks, wooden pegs and pipe cleaners. Watch as the gymnast balances on a wooden spoon, demonstrating principles of centre of gravity and equilibrium. Children will marvel at the science behind the perfect balance and have a blast with every wobble and tilt!

You’ll need:

Jumbo Pop Sticks

https://www.teaching.com.au/product/jumbo-pop-sticks-8211-pack-of-100

Eco Wooden Spoons

https://www.teaching.com.au/product/eco-wooden-spoon-160mm-8211-pk-100

Pipe Cleaners

https://www.teaching.com.au/product/multicoloured-pipe-cleaners-6mmx300mm-pack-of-100

Wooden Pegs

https://www.teaching.com.au/product/wooden-pegs-8211-pack-of-48

Washi Tape, to decorate

https://www.teaching.com.au/product/washi-tape-arty-8211-set-of-8

Let’s make it!

1. Twist two pipe cleaners around each other to create one thick pipe cleaner.

2. Wrap the pipe cleaner around one end of a pop stick and twist the pipe cleaner tightly in place.

3. Place a wooden peg at the two ends of the pipe cleaner (and add some colourful washi tape to give your gymnast some flare).

4. Hold an eco-wooden spoon in front of you and place the gymnast onto the spoon with the pipe cleaner and pegs dangling close to the spoon.

5. Test out the balance, shifting the pipe cleaner and wooden pegs a little at a time until the balance is spot on.

Done! Your gymnast is ready to compete!

*TOP TIP – Ensure the pipe cleaner arms/legs are evenly spaced and symmetrical to achieve the best balance on the wooden spoon. Be patient! It will take time adjusting here and there until you get it spot on.

Congratulations on transforming your classroom into a STEAM hub of sporting fun. As you continue to ignite the torch of knowledge, may your classroom radiate brilliance like a true champion. We look forward to seeing your students shine at the next event! Tag @modernteaching so we can join in!

14/05/202430/09/2024

6 hands-on sensory tray activities you’ll LOVE

Bring on the tray play! Versatile, engaging hex trays give children endless learning possibilities. Also known as a tuff tray or sensory table, the humble hex tray is an open-ended, moulded plastic tray typically in a natural sand colour with a hexagonal shape inspired by the shape of honeycomb (you can also get a charcoal hex tray).

Why tuff trays are a crowd favourite

These trays are great for both indoor and outdoor use. (Our ‘hex tray’ features UV-stable plastic which is fade resistant). Use it on a tabletop, on the floor or with a metal stand. Add playmats (textures, roadway, rainbow, chalkboard) or bring your own imagination to the table!!! Self-contained hex trays make the perfect platform for messy play, small world play, sensory exploration and nature play. We’re looking at sensory exploration in this blog as it’s such an important part of early childhood development, allowing children to explore using their senses of touch, sight, smell, hearing and sometimes taste! Hex trays are ideal for creating sensory experiences due to their shallow compartments and ability to contain various materials including water (keep a towel or two handy)! Let’s dive into our sensory activities.

Explore the deep blue sea

Transform your tray into a mini underwater world. Some important days in the calendar give you a great reason to make a splash! World Reef Awareness Day on 1st of June is focused on protecting the world’s coral reefs. Then World Oceans Day will be celebrated on 7th of June this year to raise awareness about the critical role our oceans play in sustaining life on Earth. These days give you a wonderful opportunity to teach about our world’s shared oceans and our personal connections to the sea. Fill compartments with blue-tinted water, add sea creatures, shells and stones. Encourage children to explore marine life, discuss ocean habitats and learn about sea creatures’ characteristics. Introduce concepts of buoyancy, sink and float, and understanding of the marine ecosystem.

Activity 1: Sensory ocean tray

In this messy play experience, we combine small world wonder with elements of STEM magic.

You’ll need:

Watercolour Sponges (NAR089)

Blue Craft Dye (EC102)

Ocean Counters (LER0799)

Plastic Slip Syringe (SER1016003)

Grassy Stones (TH9130)

Transparent Shells (GUW8081)

Zip lock bags (sandwich size)

Muffin pan or freezer-safe bowls

Shaving Foam

Bicarbonate of soda

Vinegar

Let’s make it!

Add a few ocean counters to a zip lock bag and fill with water. Secure tightly and lay flat in the freezer until frozen solid. Repeat for desired quantity.
Add ocean counters to a muffin pan (or bowl) and fill each section with water. Carefully place in a freezer until frozen.
Shake 2 x 1kg boxes of bicarbonate of soda into the hex tray.
Time to set the scene! Arrange the transparent shells, remaining ocean counters and grassy stones in the hex tray.
Remove the muffin pan from the freezer and let sit for several minutes; the ice shapes should slip out easily now, and to the hex tray scene.
Remove the frozen sandwich bags from the freezer, carefully remove the bag from the ice, discard the bag safely and add the ice bricks to the hex tray scene.
Add a splash of blue craft dye to a jug of water and gently pour into the hex tray over the bicarbonate of soda.
Add desired amount of shaving foam into the hex tray.
Add a few cups of vinegar (we used double strength) into a bowl accessible for children to fill syringes with and squirt into the water. Done! You’re ready to explore.

TOP TIP – If you’re enjoying this messy play experience indoors, keep a towel nearby for quick clean ups as the morning/afternoon progresses.

Celebrate World Environment Day

This event on the 5th of June has become the largest global platform for environmental outreach. Join the movement! Use your hex tray to explore climate, weather patterns, global warming, animal habitats, marine pollution, overpopulation, sustainable development, wildlife and plant life. Create a miniature landscape representing different climates, from deserts to rainforests. Use natural materials like sand, moss and small plants to illustrate ecosystems. Discuss the importance of preserving the environment and the role each child can play in conservation efforts.

Activity 2: Wonderful world sensory tray

Create a small world sensory tray with creatures great and small roaming the earth!

You’ll need:

Hex Tray & stand (SUN201K)

All Weather Magnifying Glasses (GC4600)

Blue Magic Sand (CS1501)

Green Magic Sand (CS1502)

Natural Magic Sand (CS1500)

Cocoa

Straw/hay

Animal & insect figurines

Pebbles (PNP055)

Pine leaves (SH9512)

Wooden farm fence (LB0021)

Let’s make it!

To make the ‘soil’, add ½ cup of cocoa to the natural-coloured magic sand and give it a good mix through.
Add all the different coloured sand and straw to the hex tray (we’ve sectioned the tray into wild animals, domesticated animals, ocean animals and insects, with each different coloured surface representing the land, sea, grass, and farm.
Create a happy habitat by adding rocks and plants etc. to form a small world scene. Get creative! You might have some shells or flowers etc. on hand to add different colours, textures, and aromas.
Carefully place the animals into their habitats along with magnifying glasses and you’re ready to play!

Extension:

Sensory Stories: Use your tray table as a storytelling prop for sensory narratives. Fill compartments with materials representing elements of a story about our world, such as cotton balls for clouds, blue water beads for the sea and small figurines for characters or animals. Encourage children to engage in imaginative play as they manipulate the sensory elements to retell the story or create their own narratives.

Sensory nature play

Using found objects in nature for sensory exploration is awesome, particularly in autumn and winter! Fill compartments with vibrant leaves of various shapes and colours. Encourage children to touch, feel and sort leaves based on texture, size and colour. Stimulate senses and promote descriptive language as children engage in tactile experiences with nature’s seasonal beauty. Explore the textures, scents and colours of each of nature’s treasures.

Activity 3: Nature sensory tray

Bold colours in autumn and winter offer an enticing invitation for children to explore.

You’ll need:

Hex Tray & stand (SUN201K)

5kg bag of white rice

Red vegetable dye (AFS126)

Yellow vegetable dye (AFS140)

Baking trays

Baking paper

Large zip lock bags

Branch cut circles (TH0030)

Pine Cones (TH0020)

Natural leaves (TH0040)

Insect counters (TEB6013)

Masking Tape (DP0504)

All-Weather Jumbo Tweezers (GC4604)

All-Weather Magnifying Glasses (GC4600)

Eco paper cups (JM850)

Let’s make it!

Add coloured rice to the bottom of the hex tray and decorate with the natural resources, leaves and insect counters.
Adhere lengths of masking tape over the top of the tray, creating a maze for children to work through.
Place a pair of tweezers, magnifying glass and paper cup at each station for children to search and collect objects. Done! You’re ready to explore.

How to colour rice:

Add 4 cups of uncooked white rice to a large zip lock bag.
Mix desired amount of vegetable dye powder with 1 tablespoon of vinegar and dump into the bag.
Seal the bag well, then shake it around until the rice is coated in colour.
Pour the coloured rice onto a baking tray lined with baking paper and spread out evenly.
Leave to dry thoroughly for a day or so depending on the weather. To speed up drying time stir the rice around on the tray a few times to ensure air can access each grain as it dries, or place in the sun etc.

TOP TIP – If children are helping to shake the bag of coloured rice, it can be a good idea to double bag (place the sealed zip lock bag of rice into another zip lock bag and seal again).

Bring early literacy to life

Transform your hex tray into a literacy wonderland to support phonics and early reading skills. Fill compartments with letter tiles, phonics cards or literacy manipulatives. Engage children in hands-on activities to match letters, form simple words and explore letter-sound relationships. Encourage storytelling and imaginative play to enhance language development and literacy comprehension.

Activity 4: Alphabet fishing sensory tray

With this tactile activity, children will be reeling in their alphabet catch in no time.

You’ll need:

Cotton Sensory Sand 6kg (EC234-6)

Magnetic Letters (QT5452)

Fishing Rods (ZZ001S)

Let’s make it!

Tip the cotton sensory sand into the hex tray and spread evenly.
Evenly spread desired number of magnetic letters over the sand.
Place the fishing rods around the outside of the hex tray, inviting children to fish a letter. Done! You’re ready to explore.

TOP TIP – Younger children developing their hand eye coordination might enjoy working with magnetic wands to fish out the magnetic objects.

Colour sorting & sensory exploration

Use your tuff tray to introduce the concept of colour recognition and sorting. Fill compartments with an array of colourful objects such as buttons, beads or pom-poms. Prompt children to sort objects by colour, count each group and discuss colour shades and variations. Foster cognitive development and early mathematical concepts through hands-on colour exploration activities.

Activity 5: Colour sorting sensory tray

This tray activity combines tactile exploration with classification skills and fine motor dexterity.

You’ll need:

Sorting Bowls & Tweezers Set (TEB6332)

Sea Life Counters (TEB6012)

Vegetable Dye

Assorted Pom Poms (SH1374)

Popping corn

Jar/jug

Baking tray

Baking paper

Water

Vinegar

Measuring cups

Measuring spoons

Let’s make it!

Add the coloured corn, pom poms and sea life counters to the hex tray.
Place the matching Sorting Bowls & Tweezers around the 6 sides of the hex tray as ‘stations’ to invite children to collect the corresponding-coloured items. Done! You’re ready to explore.

TOP TIP – The vinegar coats the colouring onto the corn evenly and acts as a preservative to stop the corn from spoiling. It’ll last for ages! When you do finally finish, why not try sprouting the kernels in the veggie garden!

How to colour corn:

Pour a 400g bag of popping corn into a large jar/jug (old coffee jars work well).
Add 1 cup of water and 1 cup of vinegar (or 1/2 cup of double strength vinegar). Add a little more water if needed to completely cover the corn in liquid.
Add 1 tablespoon of vegetable dye/food colouring to the jar and give it a good stir.
Leave to soak for 24 hours, pour into a strainer, and give a good rinse under the tap (the coloured water can be used for painting if desired).
Pour the corn onto a baking tray lined with baking paper and leave in a warm sunny spot to dry thoroughly (stir the corn around to ensure all surfaces are dry) and then store in an airtight container/zip lock bag until ready to use.

Extensions:

Texture Play: Fill compartments with a variety of textured materials such as colourful sand, rice, pasta, cotton balls or kinetic sand. Encourage children to explore the textures using their hands or even their feet for a more immersive experience. Discuss the differences between smooth, rough, soft and hard textures, fostering descriptive language and tactile awareness.

Calming activities: Create calming sensory experiences using soothing materials like lavender-scented rice, soft fabric scraps or water with a few drops of essential oil. Encourage children to engage in calming activities such as running their fingers through the rice or feeling the texture of the fabric, promoting relaxation and emotional regulation.

Exploring pre-writing & First Nations symbols

Activities that explore cultural perspectives are fantastic to incorporate into your tray time. Fill compartments with symbolic items like animal figurines, traditional artwork or Indigenous symbols. Encourage children to explore the significance of each symbol, engage in storytelling inspired by Indigenous culture and practise pre-writing skills by tracing symbolic patterns. Develop fine motor skills and cultural appreciation in an inclusive learning environment.

Activity 6: First Nations symbols sensory tray

This activity combines fine motor skills development with the exploration of literacy using Aboriginal symbols cards.

You’ll need:

Red, Yellow and Black sand (EC706, EC708, EC701)

Easi Grip Brushes (CS2566)

Aboriginal Symbols Cards (RICA1302)

Let’s make it!

Empty the 3 containers of coloured sand into your sensory tray and gently smooth out.
Place an Aboriginal Symbols Card and Easi Grip Brush at each ‘station’ for children to recreate.
Use the Easi Grip brushes (or fingers for tactile memory) to recreate the symbols.
Enrich the experience using language. Talk about the symbols; what they look like (is the symbol created with wavy lines, circles, dots, curves etc.), what does each symbol represent (meeting place, water, animals etc.) Can you tell a story using the symbols? What symbols can you find in the learning environment? Done! You’re ready to explore.

TOP TIP – Younger children will benefit from the chunky barrel of the Easi Grip Brushes while older students will find a thinner brush more comfortable to handle.

And so over to you for tuff tray time! We’re so excited to know what activities you use your tray for to encourage sensory exploration, messy play and small world play in your centre. What’s your favourite activity? Which will you be trying first?

We’ve pulled together all your MTA hex tray sensory and small world play essentials in this Wishlist.

06/04/202414/10/2024

How to build the ultimate indoor play space in your kitchen corner

Kids in the kitchen! 🌽🍳 Bringing play-based learning to life

Children learn best through play. It’s a vital part of early childhood that encourages children to learn, develop and grow whilst having fun. In The Early Years Learning Framework, play-based learning is a central focus, and emphasises the intentional role of educators in enriching learning. (EYLF practice: Play-based learning and intentionality).

Bringing a kitchen corner to life in your centre creates a stage for pretend play, role play and open-ended play that encourages imagination, language development, social interactions, sharing, as well as a sense of belonging and identity. A wonderful pretend play space allows educators to achieve EYLF outcomes such as: ‘Children are confident and involved learners; Children are connected with and contribute to their world’. So what are we waiting for? Time to whip up the ultimate indoor kitchen play space. 🍳

Hot trends to look for in kitchen sets

Trend: the real deal!

They might be ‘pretend’, but the trend is for real-look play kitchens. This comes through in details such as soft close hinges, real tapware and contemporary materials. Love!!

Trend: open furnishings

Another trend is for open furnishings, allowing easy access to shelves and cooking play essentials! We love this, as it creates a visual feast that inspires play easily.

Trend: modular

Versatility is king with these new play spaces. Modular elements you can build and shape how you like to accommodate your space and move around to keep things fresh!

Our top dream (play) kitchens…

Coastal & cool

This new Norwegia Spaces Coastal Kitchen Island & Bench Set has breezy fresh vibes for days. It leans into the trends with real taps and versatile kit elements (that also complement the Natural Spaces and other Norwegia Spaces ranges). Shop the set or the Bench and Island separately.

Urban & awesome

Urban chic, early childhood-style! This new Norwegia Spaces Urban Kitchen Island & Bench Set embraces the industrial look with its modern materials, black & white look and clean lines. Shop the set or the Bench and Island separately.

Flexible & fun

The Natural Spaces Open Play Kitchen Set of 4 is so versatile. We adore the open furnishings and modular aspect of this set that has a beautiful natural aesthetic! The set includes a kitchen bench, stove, sink and cupboard. Move them around however you like to inspire play!

Take a peek at the whole range: Kitchen & Home Corner Furniture

Let’s get cooking!

Now it’s time to stock up the cupboards and cook up some fun learning! We’ve handpicked 10 colourful food, health and nutrition sets to invite role play, conversation, open-ended play and group activities.

1: Multicultural on the menu

Teach little ones respect for diversity and cultural responsiveness through role play & discussion with the Multicultural Food Set. It includes a Chinese Food Set, Japanese Food Set and Italian Food Set. Each set features food, plates, condiments and a menu. Each play food set is also available separately.

2: Tuck into bush tucker

Play snap, read, prepare a pretend meal and chat about Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander perspectives with this new Bush Food Kit. It’s focused on learning about traditional Aboriginal bush food in a tangible and fun way, encouraging role play while opening conversations about First Nations People and their culture.

3: Teach about food allergies

Help the little ones in your care learn about Food Allergies & Intolerances with this engaging card game. There are eight cards with food intolerances, 45 food cards, ambulance cards and more.

4: Food bingo!

For early literacy skills, association skills and critical thinking, you’ll love having a pack of Bingo (with 72 food items) in your kitchen corner. Each tile has an image on one side and a name on the other, so that children can practise learning associations with visual and verbal cues. There are flexible play options to suit children of various ages and abilities – match picture to picture; or word to picture.

5: Match or sort the fruit & veggies

This new Fruit & Vegetable Match set lets little ones play and learn at the same time. There are 28 colour-printed wooden tiles, perfectly sized for small hands. Match the pairs, play a memory game or use the tiles to practise sorting food items: fruit vs veg; various colours; sweet vs sour vs savoury; seeds vs no seeds… it’s up to you!

6: Learn about the food groups

Potatoes, eggs or sour grapes?! Learn about food groups in a fun way with The Food Group Book Pack. This bestselling picture book series serves up a plate full of laughs, adventures and lessons with empowering and charming stories. There are seven books… from The Couch Potato to The Smart Cookie to The Big Cheese!

7: What’s for breakfast?

Get puzzling and prepare a yummy meal with My Breakfast Tray. This new tray from Andreu Toys will be so popular in your kitchen corner for pretend play. (Andreu Toys are committed to inclusive education, with a clear intention of promoting diversity). The wooden tray is served up with all its accessories, including toast, fried egg and more. Did someone say yum?

8: Chop! Chop! Let’s hone those fine motor skills!

With the Joseph Joseph Chopping Board Set, chop away with this licensed replica of Joseph Joseph’s colourful Chop2Pot folding chopping board. This fun set includes a safe-to-use Elevate knife and four pieces of ‘choppable’ food. It uses ChopPop™️ play food technology for safe play with no hook & loop fastenings or magnets in sight!

9: Cake & coffee… let’s brew this!

With a cake mixer, tea set and coffee set in Melissa & Doug’s Wooden Appliances Sets, you can mix it up or cook up some mud pies! Melissa & Doug’s hand-crafted designs use durable wood and other specialist materials that are popular with educators and children alike.

10: Wrap your food & nutrition learning up in a bow

Get the cupboards ready! Our Nutrition Curriculum Kit will help you stock up on all the pretend play food you could need! You can also teach students about healthy eating in a hands-on way. There’s a huge set of play food that includes meat, breads, poultry, dairy, sweets and condiments. There’s a 36-piece container of fruits and vegetables, plus a wooden play food crate featuring the five food groups. The kit also includes a floor mat showing the healthy eating plate, with food cards and teacher notes. It’s such a valuable resource to teach about nutrition!

Head here to see even more Play Foods & Home Corner ideas,

Key food, nutrition & health dates for your calendar

We know your little learners will use their play kitchen every day, but these annual days are a perfect time to delve deeper into the world of kitchens, health, nutrition and food!

🥕 National Eat Your Veggies Day – 17 June

🍓 National Nutrition Week – 16-23 October

🥑 International Chef’s Day – 20 October

🍇 More fun food days this year

We can’t wait to hear how you create your play kitchen corner. Hungry to get started? We’ve pulled together everything here in this Wishlist.

For a consultation or more inspo, check out the Brilliant Learning Spaces we support in early childhood. Oh, and download the inspirational Booklet for more ideas!

Easy Fill First Aid Kit

22/03/202424/05/2024

Admin powers activate: how to achieve boss-level office organisation in 2024

Being a school admin means being MANY things. Every day, you call, coordinate, communicate, order, organise, file, budget, laminate, print and distribute (that’s for starters). We see you, admins! You need to be ORGANISED! We’ve pulled together some new and popular resources to help you achieve boss-level organisation this year. Time to activate your admin superpowers.

Storage sorted in style

Let’s start with refreshing your storage. There’s a new range we LOVE that lets you modernise your tubs, trays, baskets and caddies. It’s our Colours of Australia collection and it’s gorgeous! It’s been created in a natural, earthy colour palette with the five colours (Mallee, Coral, Mountain Gum, Snow Gum and Ocean) representing the beauty of this country. The best news: all the pieces are stackable, durable, lightweight and versatile. Functional beauty, all yours, in sets of five! We think you’ll love these too.

Connector Tubs keep stationery items easily accessible, making them an ideal addition to your office environment. Pens, scissors, pencils, glue… these tubs keep everything in order.

Plastic Book and Storage Tubs will be your office filing BFFs. What you’ll love about these sturdy Storage Tubs is their high back, perfect for storing taller books, catalogues and folders.

Versatile is what these Small Plastic Caddies are about. They have so many uses around the office and adjoining areas. As well as storing office equipment and stationery, they can be a great holder for little student favourites (like fidget toys – see below!).

Multifunctional storage Literacy Tubs will be endlessly useful – on your desk, in the cupboards, on the shelves – wherever you need to file and find office paperwork at your fingertips.

Every educational office needs a Tote Tray or ten! These space-savers can house all your essentials and supplies. (You just know that educators will want this new range in their rooms too for all their organisational needs).

WHY NOT: Continue the look in your office decor

Why not extend your earthy office theming with a new Colours of Aus Rug? Choose squares or circles… whatever you prefer! These new additions to our range will look stunning in any office, reception area or foyer. They’re hard-wearing and durable too, made from high-quality cut pile polyester blend with a non-slip latex backing. Each one measures 4 x 3 m making a welcoming and calming sight in your space (and very matchy with the new storage tubs which is lovely!).

Stock up your ‘Slick’ Bay…

As an office admin, we know it’s part of your day to help little people who don’t feel their best or sometimes have medical emergencies. So, let’s make sure you have the slickest, most organised sick bay around.

This metal wall-mounted cabinet is your go-to First Aid Kit. It comes fully stocked with all the essentials and can be easily refilled by using the colour-coded visualiser located inside the cabinet. You’ll love this visualiser! It lets you easily see what’s out of stock without having to perform a stocktake as the contents are easily seen, colour-coded and the use by dates are visible.

Grab and Run First Aid Kit Soft Pack

This is your on-the-go grab and run First Aid Kit. It’s also an ‘Easy Fill’ kit, simply refilled by using the colour-coded visualiser inside the pack.

Allergy Buddy Rapid Access Medical Panel & Pouches

For any sick bay, you’ll want the Allergy Buddy Rapid Access Medical Panel, designed to display, store and rapidly access vital medicines and emergency information (such as medical alert ID card and a child’s Action Plan). When hanging, it’s 42 cm wide x 82 cm long and weighs 1.6 kg before the contents are added. The panel has the flexibility to be mounted on a wall or can be removed, folded into a satchel bag with the quick release clips, ready for mobile use!

Each Allergy Buddy Individual Pouch has room to hold a child’s emergency allergy medications such as EpiPen® (Adrenaline Auto-Injector), Antihistamine, Asthma Medications (Ventolin & compact aerosol spacer chamber). These pouches fit on to the Allergy Buddy Rapid Access Medical Panel where you can have six at one time.

Premium Snake Bite First Aid Kit

Situated in a snake or spider-prone area? You’d be smart to keep this Snake Bite First Aid Kit handy. The sturdy portable case with internal fold-out compartments is splash resistant for all conditions. Inside are premium latex-free snake bite compression bandages with indicators, ensuring quick and correct application. There’s a full colour snake and spider identification sheet, a treatment guide and additional items like a foam-padded splint, shears, a permanent marker, CPR mask and a whistle for attracting attention in emergencies.

Clean like a dream

We know the health and hygiene of your educational facility often falls to you. Ordering the right cleaning supplies can be tricky. Relax! Stock up the janitorial closet with these new cleaning essentials and you can tick cleaning off your admin list. Once you get these in there, your work is done! These Australian-made MTA newbies are ultimate by name and ultimate by nature!

Ultimate Neutral Cleaner Concentrate & Spray Bottle

This is the perfect pH-neutral solution for maintaining cleanliness in your educational environment (and doing less harm to the global environment). It safely and efficiently cleans all hard surfaces, from nappy change areas to floors. And being a concentrate, it really goes the distance! It only needs 20 ml of concentrate from this 5 L container to a 500 ml spray bottle and then fill the rest with water. Then spray away! This all-in-one replaces the need for a spray and wipe, disinfectant, floor cleaner and bathroom cleaner. For floor cleaning and mopping, dilute the concentrate at 40:1.

Bamboo Bio Wipes

We think you’ll love these Bamboo Biodegradable Wipes because they tick all the modern cleaning boxes – they’re thick, absorbent and environmentally friendly. Made using natural biodegradable bamboo fibres (and of course plastic-free cloth and packaging!), each roll contains a whopping 45 metres of wipes, complete with 90 easy-to-tear perforated sheets. Choose from blue, green or red!

Student support (and smiles)

It’s nice to have some smile-making resources on hand to keep students occupied and feeling supported when they turn up at your door or office window. Sometimes, they have a little bit of dwell time (when they’re in sick bay or waiting to be picked up) or maybe you just want to have a little something to greet them when they turn up in the office.

Soft rubber air-filled stress balls are all the rage, as you know! Puffer Stress Balls are ever-so-soothing, sensory resources and come with a messy foam finish that makes them oddly attractive and likeable. Pick up a pack with four balls in purple, red, blue and green to keep on hand for little hands aged three and above.

Have the coolest office or reception area around, with these calming, silent and satisfying sensory Flick Sticks. With the ability to tap, twirl or play with their rubbery fibres, they’re known to reduce stress and anxiety which can be helpful in an office scenario. They also relieve tension and provide an outlet for excess energy. These cute fidget toys attach to screens, windows, surfaces and keyboards thanks to a suction cup that keeps them in place.

This expandable Mindfulness Magic Ball can teach children to follow their breath (one of the key techniques of mindfulness practice). This can be so helpful in the office if a child is anxious or a little stressed. Designed in a soft colour palette, little ones will love the addition of the Mindfulness Magic Ball in an office, reception or foyer space. Suits little ones aged 3 years and above.

Love these? Find more Handheld Fidget Resources here for your office space.

Teachables Magnetic Whiteboards, Coloured Markers & Mini Erasers Kit

Doodling, drawing and dreaming… we think this kit could be a great addition to your office or reception area while you’re supporting students as they wait. The kit includes 12 small hand-held magnetic whiteboards (25 x 30 cm), 12 coloured non-toxic markers and 12 small erasers. The whiteboards have a wipe-clean white surface so they can be enjoyed again and again and again.

Waiting room wows

An organised and inviting waiting area is soooo easy. And now it can have all the wows too. Just follow our tips and your office waiting area will take on a life of its own while educators, parents, carers, visitors, guests or students are, well… waiting.

Bring in some cultural touches

Start with these sturdy Indigenous Magazine Boxes to brighten your waiting area and hold a variety of A4 sized school reading material or magazines. This set features the stunning artwork of Dharug artist-educator Leanne Watson Redpath (the Earth set features an emu, kangaroo and a quokka). The vibrant colours and Australian bush scenery will brighten any office. They’re hardy too, as they’re laminated for strength and durability.

Create a warm, welcoming space

Isn’t this bright, vibrant Shapes and Words Carpet a great solution for your waiting room area? Another great advantage of a beautiful carpet is the sound muffling qualities versus a traditional wooden or tiled floor. No need to hear distracting footsteps all day long! We think The MTA Spaces Shapes and Words carpet will be a favourite for little office visitors who are exploring early literacy and numeracy. While they’re waiting, they can brush up on their basic skills in colours, shapes, letter recognition and naming. It comes with a range of shape related words along the border to keep them busy too!

Like any hard-working carpet, it features a thick and durable nylon pile with a sturdy rubber backing for strength and support (it’s a great size too for most foyers or reception spaces measuring 195 x 240 cm). Coloured Space Carpets are designed in Australia and manufactured using lead free dyes.

The ideal office sofa exists!

No waiting area, foyer or reception area would be complete without a durable sofa lounge… or more if space permits! The Aalto Double Sofa is part of the flexible modular Aalto range of upholstered fabric ottomans with back rests. Just like carpets, using furniture such as upholstered ottomans helps to reduce noise and improve acoustic levels in a space by partially blocking sound waves and absorbing them.

This range of Aalto ottomans, poufs and sofas features commercial grade, high quality upholstery fabric that includes a grade 4 stain protection treatment to help prevent stains. Handy! Other practical features include a FSC sustainable timber frame and supportive, comfortable padding. The Aalto range is available in a variety of colours which can suit almost any room setting or configuration. This double lounge sofa chair measures 120cm long x 60cm deep x 80cm high, comes with lockable castors as well as plastic feet, allowing for flexibility. Combine two of these comfy chairs together to make a larger sofa or combine with our single sofa.

Inspired? Check out the full range of Reception & Foyers options here.

Versatile displays for all the things!

The super handy and versatile two-sided Photo Frame with Stand can display any number of messages, information, images, updates… you name it! Available in A4 and A5, these frames will work hard delivering important messages. Simply slide in the notice and pop them on any stable surface.

Every office window needs a large sign holder. Voila! The Duraframe Sign Holder is perfect for displaying signs, notices or artwork on glass. The frame can be attached to glass with static and is easily removable. Your signs can be read from both sides of the glass and are perfect for windows, doors with glass panels or even glass boards. This winner frame comes in A3 size and is available in a pack of two, but it’s also available in an A4 size.

Need more ideas for noticeboards? Check out our full range of Noticeboards here.

Fabulous faux-liage

Some say fake, we say fabulous! Here are some faux foliage facts:

- - - FACT ONE: If you want a low-maintenance forever friend, an artificial plant will smile at you 24/7 from its corner.
  - - FACT TWO: Studies prove that exposure to nature, even through images, positively impacts our mood and disposition. Since artificial plants mimic nature, they will also elicit these responses.
  - - FACT THREE: Faux indoor plants can be stress-busting. Because they can improve mood, they can make you calmer and more composed, thereby lowering stress levels. Experts advise that having lush, beautiful plants close by is one of the simplest ways to de-stress after a difficult or tiring day
  - - FACT FOUR: Did we mention they are virtually maintenance-free? (No water, fertiliser or sunlight needed!).

- The Ficus Artificial Plant is available in two sizes (90 (H) cm or 180 (H) cm) depending on the space you need to fill. a gorgeous Artificial Ficus Plant makes a bold statement and effortlessly transforms a room into a veritably verdant haven! The full, bushy structure and canopy of leaves make your ficus a natural focal point and a key part of a luscious setting. Prefer a palm? Renowned for bringing a burst of lush tropical life to any setting, this Artificial Palm evokes the relaxed vibe of sunny coastlines and balmy climates. The 100 cm tall Outdoor Artificial Palm Tree is a natural fit for contemporary decorating in the office, with its breezy appearance and life-like fronds that sway with a suggestion of movement. Brings the aesthetics of the sun-drenched tropics into your everyday. Who needs a green thumb!?

Find more for the office, reception or foyer to add a bit of colour in our Classroom Display. Why should the teachers have all the fun?

Personal organisation

Finally, it’s hard to achieve boss level organisation and activate your admin superpowers without a few personal organisation faves.

Multi-purpose organisational pouches

These Teachables Pouches are made of durable, flexible EVA mesh, with a quality zipper that’s designed to last. Store stationery, reward stickers, notes, office essentials and documents. Use A3 for large documents; A4 for standard-sized papers; A5 for on-the-go compact organisation; DL size for envelope-sized essentials.

2024 Planner

Every year, we create these much-loved MTA Early Years & Teacher Planners. They’re the ultimate organisational tools, developed in tandem with teachers & educators. But school admins can also find these the perfect premium quality A4 spiral bound planner with 53 week-to-view spreads and important dates/term dates for 2024/2025. Perhaps keep a planner or two on hand to welcome new and casual teachers as well?

Want more display and organisational inspo? Find it here in our Folders, Filing & Display section.

So there you have it. Office organisation sorted. Of course, MTA has a LOT more to choose from (with 27,000 educational resources for teachers and educators and over 1,350 new resources in 2024 alone). Tell us anything else you’d love to make your office sing, and how you’ll achieve boss-level organisation @modernteaching

Shop the admin superpowers wishlist: here

Creatistics Strong Craft Glue

19/03/202414/05/2024

6 easy heartfelt, handmade Mother’s Day gifts Mums love and little ones love to make

Every mum is a gift. But on Mother’s Day, it’s their turn to receive some love in the shape of a special gift.

Help your little learners say “I love you, Mum” with these super simple craft activities. Key tags in candy colours. Wooden flowers that always bloom. Sweet note holders that cradle special messages. These handmade gifts are an easy way for children of all ages to showcase their love and creativity and have been designed to make educators smile too! They’re colourful, fun ideas we take you through step-by-step.

Get ready to dive into a world of glitter, glue and gratitude as we turn this Mother’s Day into a magical moment for educators, children and mums alike!

Mother’s Day Note Holder

We all know that mums are busy bees. So, what better gift to give than a note holder that keeps notes and special messages organised and doubles as a colourful and floral appreciation of all the hard work they put in?

You will need:

Bio-Glitter – Set of 8

Masking Tape

Step-by-step

Assemble the note holder by slotting the two MUM sides into the stand.

Apply your desired shades of pastel paint to the sides and stand and set aside to dry. Repeat paint application as desired.

Lay a length of thin masking tape across the front of the MUM lettering roughly 2/3rds of the way down. Press down gently.

Spread a layer of glue to the MUM letters below the masking tape line and sprinkle Bio-glitter to cover the glue. Shake off excess and set aside to dry.

Use a pencil to roughly draw a small leaf shape onto the pastel paper, fold the paper several times (to a workable thickness to complement scissor skills) and cut out the drawn leaf. You will now have multiple leaves. Repeat as desired.

Use strong craft glue to adhere the leaves and the desired number of felt flowers to the note holder and set aside to dry.

Done! The perfect Mother’s Day Note Holder is ready.

*TOP TIP – When shaking the Bio-glitter over the MUM Note Holder, lay a piece of paper under it to catch the excess glitter. You’ll be able to put the glitter back in the bottle to reuse.

Add this activity to your Wishlist: https://www.teaching.com.au/sharedwishlist/65f36ef8283170dfe3f5d7e0

Wooden Flower Bouquet

To show everlasting love for mums on their special day, gift something that lasts just as long with an everlasting flower bouquet! Plus, the original wooden flower bouquet can double as a jewellery display for another crafty day.

You will need:

Wooden Flower Bouquet

Creatistics Acrylic Paint Set

Paper Magiclay Candy Colours

Tacky Glue

Step-by-step

Assemble the Flower Bouquet by slotting the flowerpot into the stand.

Apply your desired shades of pastel paint to the assembled flower bouquet and set aside to dry.

Snip 2 x green pipe cleaners into 3rds to make 6 x short flower ‘stems’.

Turn 6 x felt flowers upside down on a flat surface and squeeze a big blob of tacky glue to the back of each flower. Gently press the ends of the pipe cleaner stems into the tacky glue blobs and leave to dry overnight.

Weave and twist the flower stems through the pre-cut holes and twist around themselves to keep them in place.

Use small dabs of tacky glue to secure the paper leaves in place, making a bountiful-looking bouquet of flowers. Set aside to dry.

Use a small handful of white silk clay with a small amount of candy-coloured Magiclay to knead and press down onto the stand to add texture as desired (handy to press additional embellishments into as desired).

Done! The perfect Wooden Flower Bouquet is ready.

*TOP TIP – Extend the activity for older students by enlarging the flowers using matte paper squares. Simply draw larger flower shapes or thin strips to loop for petals and glue to the back of the felt flowers before adding the pipe cleaner stem.

Add this activity to your Wishlist: https://www.teaching.com.au/sharedwishlist/65f3777f7ab85899632d2751

Rose Gold Key Tags

These personalised Mother’s Day keyrings turn an ordinary key chain into an extraordinary keepsake. What’s more, they’re super colourful and eye-catching, so mums can say goodbye to the days of misplaced keys!

You will need:

Rose Gold Lobster Key Tags

White Silk Clay

Paper Magiclay Candy Colours

Assorted Coloured Tassels

Alphabet & Number Stamps

Dough Scissors

Plastic Lacing Needles

Step-by-step

Knead a portion of white silk clay with small amounts of candy coloured Magiclay to make pastel tones.

Use a small handful of your pastel silk clay to gently press flat, keeping the thickness roughly 1 – 2cm.

Use dough scissors to cut out a heart shape (Use a pencil or skewer to roughly mark out the heart shape to guide cutting lines if required). Gently press the edges to smooth them.

Press the Alphabet & Number stamps into the heart to imprint ‘MUM’ or ‘I LOVE MUM’ etc. as desired.

Poke a skewer through the top of the heart and wiggle around, making a hole large enough to thread the leather cord. Set aside to dry out.

With the offcuts from the heart and your remaining pastel coloured silk clay, roll into large round ‘beads’.

Poke a skewer through the centre of each hole and wiggle around to form a hole large enough for the leather cord to thread through. Set aside along with the heart to dry out for 24 to 48 hours.

Time to assemble! Cut a length of leather cord roughly 30cm and thread through the heart and secure with a knot. Thread on several beads (plastic lacing needles will assist the cord through the beads if needed) and then tie to the Rose Gold Lobster Key Tag. Tie off with several tight knots. Cut off excess cord.

Cut another length of cord to attach several beads and one coloured tassel to the lobster keychain, again tying off with several tight knots. Cut off excess cord.

Done! The perfect Rose Gold Key Tag is ready.

*TOP TIP – For younger age groups feel welcome to omit the beads and use a cookie cutter to help form the silk clay shape.

Add this activity to your wishlist: https://www.teaching.com.au/sharedwishlist/65f378f8283170dfe3f5d822

Wooden Flower Pop Mum Pot

The creative possibilities are endless with the blank canvas of a flower-shaped paddle-pop stick and a flower pot. Children can write their sweetest Mother’s Day messages on the pots and then customise the beautiful flowers!

You will need:

Wooden Flower Paddle Pop Sticks

Porcelain Flower Pot