Library Picnic

Materials

1. Books about picnics
2. Plastic insects (novelty stores)
3. Picnic basket
4. Butcher/bulletin board paper
5. Scissors
6. Green construction paper
7. Markers
8. Blanket

Instructions

1. Beforehand, gather books about picnics, a picnic basket, and plastic insects.
2. Also in advance, make a tree out of butcher or bulletin board paper. Add construction paper leaves.
3. Place a blanket on the floor with the picnic basket. Place plastic insects on the floor next to the blanket.
4. Put books in the picnic basket and encourage the children to read the books while sitting on the blanket.

Instructions

1. Read several books from the book list below and discuss what a diary is. Tell
them they will make their own diary by recording events of the day.
2. Ask each child to write her name on a few pieces of paper. Explain that they
will use their paper to dictate or draw important things that they do that
day.
3. Give the children several reminders throughout the day to take time to write
or draw in their diary. Small group, recall, and transition times are good for
reminders.
4. Ask the children to make covers for their diaries. Punch holes in each page
and put them into three-ring folders or tie with yarn.
5. Review the books with the class.
6. These are great books to review with parents at parent conferences. The
books provide insight into what each child feels is important as well as her
skills in language development, writing, and drawing.