Sensory garden containers
Potted plants are a wonderful way to show appreciation, and it is a great lesson idea for students. It can incorporate several learning objectives that include fine motor skills, measuring, science, following directions, and more. Researching this activity, the following manual was wonderfully done and can support teacher needs.
American Horticultural Society, Youth Sensory Gardening Manual.
Guided outline
- Have a variety of pots to place the plants inside. They can be upcycled. Using older pots, mugs, and containers make the gift unique and cuts down on expense.
- Find a few scents to let the students to pick from. Hardy plants bring lasting success. A few examples are: basil, mint, lavender, and lemon balm.
- Make a lesson plan that incorporates individual goals for each student. You can create a sensory gardening table with all the supplies: potted soil, pots, labels (braille or large print), plants, etc.
- Taking pictures of students as they make the pots to include in a personalized card is very heartfelt. Include student made instructions for caring for the plant.
Note: Pictured above is a pot given to me by my preschool vision class students and it meant the world to me. It has each students’ names on it with fingerprint bugs painted on it. The top reads: Thank you for helping us grow.
I found this article helpful as a guide and inspiration: Sensory Gardens for Students with Visual and Multiple Impairments: Cultivating Inclusive Learning Environments .
Coffee holder with gift card and flowers
I have seen this adorable gift idea and love it. It can be low cost if needed, you do not need to include a coffee shop gift card if you are low on funds. The flowers can be seasonal ones from outside too. Incorporate individualized goals into this activity to make it a learning experience with a caring and appreciation outcome.
- Have the student decorate the holder with paint, scented markers, tactile stickers like gems, and make a braille/large print tag to attach to it.
- The flowers can be real or silk and put them in a glass mason jar or even a recycled coffee cup. If you have a flowering plant outside, this is perfect too.
- Create a tag or card to put with it created by the student.
- If funds are available, get a gift card to the local coffee shop and travel mug. For a less expensive option, just a disposable coffee cup and place a tea bag and honey stick with it.
Keychain wristlets and beaded names
Keychains don’t just need to be for house and car keys. I often attach them to various bags for decorations. My favorites are often ones made by my students. Using beads is a great fine motor activity and often combines well with OT (occupational therapist) activities.
Braille and print beads available to order
A good resource as a jumping off point is this article: Wood Bead Garlands.
Additional ideas
Paths to Literacy has many more wonderful ideas from teachers and parents as you decide which DIY gift you prepare for upcoming holidays and events this Spring.
