Get Colorful with Elmer
A mindful children’s lesson and activity based on the book Elmer
Come with me as we explore the patchwork wonders of Elmer the elephant.
In the realm of early childhood education, captivating lesson plans hold the key to fostering a love for learning in young minds. One such gem that has captured the hearts of both educators and students is the book Elmer. My lesson plan is designed to ignite creativity, promote diversity, and encourage critical thinking.
The Colorful World of Elmer:
At the heart of the Elmer lesson plan lies the iconic patchwork elephant known for his vibrant and unique appearance. Incorporating the story of Elmer the Elephant, written by David McKee, into lesson plans introduces children to themes of self-acceptance, diversity, and friendship. The colorful visuals of Elmer’s patchwork exterior become a metaphor for celebrating differences and valuing individuality, making it a powerful tool for imparting important life lessons.
Key Components of Elmer Lesson Plans:
1. Literacy and Language Development: Elmer’s story opens doors to language development as children engage with rich vocabulary and expressive language patterns. Interactive read-aloud sessions spark discussions, enabling educators to teach new words, sentence structures, and storytelling techniques.
2. Artistic Expression: Elmer’s patchwork design serves as an excellent foundation for creative activities. Children can be encouraged to create their own patchwork elephants, allowing them to explore colors, patterns, and textures while developing fine motor skills.
3. Social and Emotional Learning: Elmer’s journey towards self-acceptance resonates with children’s emotions. Through discussions and activities, educators can help students explore their feelings, understand the concept of uniqueness, and promote empathy towards others.
4. Mathematical Concepts: Patchwork patterns present an opportunity to introduce basic math concepts such as symmetry, patterns, and shapes. Children can engage in sorting and categorizing activities, enhancing their mathematical thinking.
5. Cultural Awareness: Elmer’s diverse cast of characters showcases various cultures and personalities. This provides a gateway to discussions about cultural differences, traditions, and the beauty of embracing diversity.
6. Critical Thinking: Encouraging children to reflect on Elmer’s experiences and the decisions he makes fosters critical thinking skills. Discussing alternative scenarios or solutions to challenges promotes analytical thinking in a playful manner.
Art: Patch work Elmer! All you need is a milk jug, colorful tissue paper, glue and a googly eye (optional) you can draw the eye on.
Mindful Moments: Have an Elmer Day parade in your house! Dress up in your most colorful clothes and dance around to your favorite songs. After you have danced around start to to tip toe slowly and find your favorite yoga mat; lay down on it. Put one hand on your heart and feel your racing heart and notice how your body feels. Now start to deepen your breathing. Imagine you are floating on a puffy white cloud. The cloud is soft and feels safe and warm. Continue to take deep breathes, feel your body calming down. You are safe and you are loved.
Enjoy these free Jungle Flash cards for you and your little elephants!
Fun Elmer craft for you and your little!
Cut milk jug in half (adult only!)
Cut tissue paper into little squares (adult only!)
Dip paint brush into glue, spread over milk jug (Kids love this part!)
Apply tissue paper all over the milk just so it looks like Elmer the patchwork elephant!
Let it dry.
Add googly eye.
Viola! Your very own Elmer!