BOOM Learning Cards: A Game-Changer for Every Classroom

how to use digital task cards

In today's ever-changing educational landscape, technology has become an integral part of the learning process. As teachers, we are always looking for ways to engage our students in interactive and effective ways while nurturing their love for learning. This is where Boom™ Learning cards come into play. Boom™ Learning is an innovative platform that offers a wide range of digital learning cards designed specifically for elementary students. 

Immersive and Interactive Learning:
Boom™ Learning cards provide a dynamic and immersive learning experience that engages students' attention. The platform combines appealing visuals, interactive activities, and instant feedback, making learning fun and exciting for young minds. With Boom Cards, students actively participate in their learning, promoting critical thinking and problem-solving skills.

Differentiated Instruction:
One of the greatest challenges for elementary teachers is catering to the diverse needs and learning styles of students in a single classroom. Boom™ Learning cards offer an extensive library of cards that cover various topics and skills, allowing for differentiation and personalized instruction. Teachers can easily assign specific decks to individual students or groups, tailoring the learning experience to meet their unique requirements.

Self-Paced Learning:
Every student learns at a different pace. Boom™ Learning cards provide a self-paced learning environment where students can progress through activities at their own speed. This individualized approach enables students to grasp concepts thoroughly before moving forward, reducing frustration and building confidence. Teachers can track students' progress and identify areas where additional support may be needed, providing targeted intervention when required.

digital task cards, Boom Learning

Real-Time Feedback and Assessment:
Assessment plays a crucial role in monitoring student progress and informing instruction. Boom™ Learning cards offer real-time feedback, allowing students to receive immediate responses to their answers. This instant feedback not only helps students identify mistakes, but also reinforces correct responses. Teachers can access comprehensive data and reports, gaining valuable insights into student performance, identifying areas of strength and weakness, and tailoring their teaching accordingly.

Engaging and Interactive Assessments:
Traditional assessments can often be mundane for students. Boom™ Learning cards introduce gamification elements to assessments, transforming them into exciting challenges. Students can earn rewards, unlock levels, and achieve milestones as they progress, fostering a sense of accomplishment and motivation. By making assessments enjoyable, Boom™ Learning cards help reduce test anxiety and promote a positive attitude towards learning.

digital task cards for r-controlled vowels

Seamless Integration and Easy Accessibility:
Boom™ Learning cards can be seamlessly integrated into existing lesson plans and curriculum. The platform is compatible with various devices, including laptops, tablets, and interactive whiteboards, ensuring easy accessibility for both teachers and students. Additionally, Boom Cards can be used in the classroom or assigned for homework, extending the learning experience beyond the school walls.

Ready To Get Started with BOOM Learning? 
Your students will be so excited to use Boom™ Learning and you will love the ease of use. Simply assign your class a deck of your choice and watch the magic happen. CLICK HERE for a closer look.

Free digital task cards
*Disclaimer: "I may earn a referral prize when you use my discount."

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10 Favorite Halloween Books For Your Primary Classroom

Halloween Read Aloud Books

Halloween is a time filled with excitement and anticipation, making it the perfect opportunity to engage your students through these entertaining read-aloud books. These stories not only embrace the spooky spirit of the season but also provide valuable lessons and promote creativity. I've gathered some of my favorite Halloween read-alouds to share with you. I hope you find some new titles to add to your classroom library. All the books below come with an affiliate link to Amazon.

Halloween read-aloud book
Hallo-Wiener by Dav Pilkey
This humorous and heartwarming tale follows a dachshund named Oscar who faces teasing from his canine friends. With its message of self-acceptance and the importance of being true to oneself, "Hallo-Wiener" promotes empathy and overcoming adversity in a delightful Halloween-themed story.


Halloween book
Creepy Carrots by Aaron Reynolds
In this suspenseful and amusing book, Jasper Rabbit begins to suspect that the carrots he loves to munch on might be following him. With its unexpected twists, "Creepy Carrots" keeps young readers engaged while also highlighting the power of imagination and conquering fears.


Halloween book
Capture the excitement and anticipation of Halloween night with this rhyming book that follows children as they prepare for a spooky evening of trick-or-treating. "The Night Before Halloween" is a delightful read-aloud that builds anticipation and embraces the traditions and excitement of this special holiday.


Halloween read aloud book
Where's My Mummy by Carolyn Crimi
Join Little Baby Mummy as he plays hide-and-seek with his mummy in a haunted Egyptian tomb. This charming and not-so-scary story promotes problem-solving, patience, and the importance of family bonds. With its playful illustrations and engaging narrative, it's sure to capture the imaginations of young readers.


Halloween read aloud book
Creepy Pair of Underwear by Aaron Reynolds
From the same author as "Creepy Carrots," this book tells the story of a young rabbit who thinks he's outgrown his old undies, only to discover they might have a life of their own. With its humor and relatable themes of growing up and facing fears, this book is perfect for Halloween and beyond.


Halloween read aloud book
Bone Soup by Cambria Evans
In this captivating twist on the classic folktale "Stone Soup," Finnigin the skeleton arrives in a town looking for a hearty meal. Through humor and creativity, "Bone Soup" teaches the importance of cooperation, resourcefulness, and sharing, making it an ideal choice for Halloween festivities.


Halloween read aloud book
From the same author as the "Bad Seed," this book tells the story of a young seed who usually looks forward to Halloween each year, but is struggling to find the perfect costume because all the good ones are already taken. He creates a plan to postpone Halloween to buy himself more time. Doing so may just help him to realize what Halloween is really about.


Halloween books for elementary classrooms
Delightfully illustrated, this whimsical book provides a guide on how to befriend a ghost. It celebrates friendship, empathy, and embracing differences, offering a gentle and friendly take on the Halloween season.


Halloween books for the elementary class
That Monster on the Block by Sue Ganz-Schmitt
This fun and colorful book introduce young readers to the friendly and misunderstood monsters living on their street. Through playful rhymes and vibrant illustrations, "That Monster on the Block" encourages acceptance, empathy, and celebrates diversity.


Halloween read alouds
At the Old Haunted House by Helen Ketteman
Follow the brave protagonist as they navigate through an old haunted house filled with classic Halloween characters. This rhythmic and atmospheric tale will captivate young readers while introducing them to the spooky icons and themes associated with Halloween.

By sharing these fun-loving Halloween read-aloud books into your classroom, you'll engage and inspire your students during this festive season. These stories provide not only entertainment but also valuable lessons on friendship, self-acceptance, empathy, and problem-solving. So, gather your students and dive into the magical world of Halloween through these delightful books. 

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Halloween Books for the elementary classroom



















Using Thematic Math Crafts To Promote Math Fluency

math fluency, math crafts, thematic crafts

Math fluency is a crucial skill that lays the foundation for a lifetime of mathematical success. As elementary teachers, it's our responsibility to ensure that students not only grasp mathematical concepts, but also develop a strong fluency in basic operations like addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division. While traditional worksheets and drills have their place, incorporating hands-on and engaging activities can make a significant difference in motivating and reinforcing learning. 

Making Math Fun:
Using monthly thematic math crafts, helps transform the learning experience into something exciting for young learners. These crafts provide an opportunity for students to apply their addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division skills while creating something tangible and visually appealing. With each new theme, students will eagerly anticipate the craft-making process, which in turn nurtures their enthusiasm for math.

Hands-on Learning:
Hands-on activities are powerful learning tools that actively engage students in the learning process. These math crafts allow students to physically manipulate numbers, symbols, and objects as they solve problems related to the given theme. The tactile experience of crafting, combined with mathematical problem-solving, creates a multi-sensory learning environment that caters to different learning styles and promotes a deeper understanding of mathematical concepts.

math crafts, math fluency, thematic math crafts

Reinforcing Math Concepts:
Repetition and practice are key to developing math fluency. Monthly thematic math crafts offer a fun and creative way to reinforce mathematical concepts repeatedly. By integrating basic mathematical operations into each craft, students will encounter these concepts in various contexts, solidifying their understanding and retention of the skills.

thematic math crafts, math fluency

Collaboration and Communication:
Working on creating math crafts can also foster collaboration and communication skills. Assigning students to work in pairs or small groups promotes peer learning and encourages students to discuss and explain their reasoning. As they tackle math problems together, they develop important social and communication skills that are essential for their overall growth.

Visual Representation:
Visual aids are invaluable tools for understanding and retaining information. Thematic hanging math crafts allow students to create visual representations of mathematical problems and concepts. As they assemble the crafts, students visualize the relationships between numbers, symbols, and the final outcome. These visual representations serve as helpful references for students to reinforce their understanding and recall math facts effortlessly.

math craft, math fluency, baseball

Integrating monthly thematic hanging math crafts into your elementary classroom can be a game-changer for promoting math fluency. By nurturing creativity, hands-on learning, and collaboration into the process, students will develop a stronger grasp of addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division skills. The crafts not only make math fun, but also provide a visual representations that helps develop comprehension and retention. 

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10 Fall Read Alouds You Need In Your Classroom

10 Fall Book for the classroom

As autumn approaches, it's time to bring the magic of the season into your elementary classroom. One of the best ways to engage your students is through the power of a great read-aloud book. Reading aloud not only improves literacy skills but also ignites their imagination and fosters a love for storytelling. I've gathered some of my favorite fall read alouds to share with you. I hope you find some new titles to add to your classroom library. All the books below come with an affiliate link to Amazon.

Fall Read Aloud Books

by Linda Williams
This delightful tale follows a brave little old lady as she encounters various spooky objects in the forest. With repetitive text and lively illustrations, it encourages participation and is perfect for building students' anticipation and suspense.


Fall Read Aloud Books

Room on the Broom by Julia Donaldson
Join a friendly witch and her animal companions in this story of friendship and teamwork. With rhyming text and vivid illustrations, this book captivates young imaginations while teaching valuable lessons about inclusivity and helping others.


Fall Read Aloud Books

Spookley, a square pumpkin, faces ridicule and rejection from the other pumpkins because of his unique shape. This heartwarming story promotes acceptance, individuality, and the importance of kindness, making it an excellent choice for fall and anti-bullying discussions.


Fall Read Aloud Books

Leaf Man by Lois Ehlert
Immerse your students in the beauty of autumn with this stunningly illustrated book. "Leaf Man" takes readers on an imaginative journey, exploring the different shapes and colors of leaves. It encourages creativity, observation, and environmental awareness.


Fall Read Aloud Books

The Scarecrow's Hat by Ken Brown
In this engaging book, a resourceful scarecrow embarks on a quest to trade his hat for some coveted items. Through his encounters with various animals, students learn about bartering, problem-solving, and the value of cooperation.


Fall Read Aloud Books

The Apple Pie Tree by Zoe Hall
This informative and engaging book introduces students to the life cycle of an apple tree through the eyes of two young sisters. Vibrant illustrations and simple text help children understand the seasons, pollination, and the process of making apple pie—a perfect fall treat.


Fall Read Aloud Books

The Pumpkin Book by Gail Gibbons
With its informative text and colorful illustrations, The Pumpkin Book is an excellent resource for teaching students about pumpkins. It covers topics such as planting, growth, and harvesting, as well as the history and cultural significance of pumpkins during fall celebrations.


Fall Read Aloud Books

The Little Scarecrow Boy by Margaret Wise Brown
This heartwarming tale follows the journey of a young scarecrow boy who wants to be as good as his father. Through determination and courage, he discovers his own unique strengths. The book beautifully explores themes of self-discovery, perseverance, and the importance of family.


Fall Read Aloud Books

Owl Moon by Jane Yolen
Take a nighttime adventure with a young girl and her father as they search for owls in the moonlit forest. This poetic and atmospheric story captures the sense of wonder and excitement of a special bonding moment. It also highlights the beauty of nature and the importance of patience and observation.


Fall Read Aloud Books

Pumpkin Soup by Helen Cooper
Follow the charming friendship of three animal friends—Cat, Squirrel, and Duck—as they work together to make their famous pumpkin soup. This engaging story celebrates friendship, cooperation, and the joy of sharing, making it a perfect fall read-aloud for your classroom.

Introducing these 10 fall read aloud books in your elementary classroom will not only captivate and engage your students, but will also promote important values such as friendship, acceptance, and teamwork. So gather your students, cozy up with a good book, and let the fall adventures begin!

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Simple Ideas To Celebrate Birthdays In the Classroom

Simple ways to celebrate birthdays at school

Student birthdays in the elementary classroom are a REALLY. BIG. DEAL! I love the excitement in their eyes and the joy it brings them to feel so special! I wanted to share a few simple, low prep and low cost ways to celebrate student birthdays in your classroom.

MAKE SURE TO GRAB ALL THE FREEBIES IN THIS POST!

1. Create a Birthday Display
birthday bulletin board display
I don't know a student who doesn't feel special each time they see their face or name on a birthday display. This display is what I use each year in my classroom. Under the name of each month, I post a group picture of all the students with the same birth month. They each hold the number of the day they were born. I love it because I don't have to look up whose birthday is when and no birthdays are ever over looked! Grab your birthday board HERE.

2. Birthday Blooms Pencil Display
Birthday bloom pencil display

At the beginning of each school year, I create this birthday pencil display with each of my students' names. I tape the "flower" to a birthday pencil and arrange them in a flower pot. This is in our classroom all year. When it is a child's birthday, they "pick" their pencil from the pot. The kids can't wait for their birthday to come around to get their surprise! You can grab this FREE editable template HERE.

3. Birthday Book
celebrating birthdays in the classroom

Class birthday books are another way I celebrate birthdays in my classroom. When it is a student's birthday, everyone works on a page of the birthday book during morning work time. The birthday child gets the cover to decorate and the rest of the class gets a page to color and write a birthday wish to the birthday boy or girl. I then staple all the pages together and the birthday child gets to take home the special keepsake.

You can grab this birthday book template for FREE HERE! 
classroom birthday book

4. Homework Pass
free homework pass for birthday

Give the birthday student a homework pass to use on their special day or any day during the school year. It makes them feel special and gives them something to look forward to receiving. You can grab your FREE copy of the homework pass HERE.

5. Birthday Songs



Let your birthday student choose his or her celebration song. My students love the Go Noodle birthday song and It's Your Birthday from Kidz Bop. However, you could also play Say It's Your Birthday from the Beatles or Celebration from Kool In the Gang. Whichever you choose, your students are sure to feel special. 

6. Special Seat
Let the birthday student sit at a special seat or desk for the day. I like to have special pens and markers for them to use also. You can also give them stickers and stamps to use too.

7. Summer Birthdays

As someone with a summer birthday, I truly think it is very important to celebrate those summer birthdays, so no one feels left out! I like to celebrate summer birthdays on the half birthday for those students. This way those students have a special day to celebrate just for them. You could also pick a day towards the end of the school year so celebrate all the summer birthdays. Whatever you choose, just don't forget those little sweethearts that were born during the summer months.

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