Apples

Apples is a great theme for back to school time. It's Johnny Appleseed's birthday on September 26th. We celebrate by having an apple week and birthday party for Johnny Appleseed. We read the Johnny Appleseed story and do some fun apple projects.

Apple shakers:
We have a lot of allergies in my classroom this year but one fun food that we make is during apple week. Apple shakers are very very simple. Each child gets a large piece of apple, a zip lock baggie and a plastic knife. I allow the children to cut up their apple however they like. (it's a little hard to cut up the apple, but once they keep trying they'll get it) Put the apple chunks in the baggie and allow the children to shake cinnamon and a little sugar in the bag. Seal the bag and shake. Open and enjoy!! Very yummy!!!

 Apple printing:
Green, Red and Yellow paint and apples are all you will need.
Cut up the apples along the side to reveal the seeds and then across the middle to reveal the little star inside.
Have fun making cute apple prints

We read 10 apples up on top during this week too. If you visit http://www.makinglearningfun.com they have many activities for this book. I made the 10 apples up on top pattern cards. Our kids were very good at copying the patterns.
I also give the children apples to count and balance on their heads. Just like the book!!

http://www.Makinglearningfun.com also has a cute 10 apples up on top worksheet that i number and allow the children to practice coloring in the lines

We also make our own apple tree!
I tape oatmeal containers together and then allow the children to rip brown paper and glue to make it look like bark. We then add sticks in the top and apple post it notes.
I usually put this tree in our dramatic play area with baskets and fake apples.

Applesauce delight!
A fun easy twist on applesauce
Crush graham crackers (we use hammers to make it extra fun)
It's as easy as layering applesauce graham crackers and cinnamon in a cup  - so simple and it tastes like apple pie!