Last week I posted a picture of the kids using some of the Montessori-style products I purchased at Lakeshore, and several people inquired about what they were. Their favorite by far is this Magnetic Letters set. It’s very similar to the “moveable alphabet” that is used in the Montessori classroom. Now we can buy simple sight word flashcards for each child’s level, which they can then spell out. We use a magnetic dry-erase board, and the kids use the magnetics letters to spell the word, and then use a dry-erase pen to practice writing the word themselves. 
Speaking of learning toys, I just ordered these ten-frame counters from Zulily. (Have you discovered Zulily yet? Tons of great educational toys and eco-friendly clothes at discount. You can get an invite by clicking here.) Jafta’s class has been using the ten-frame to learn math skills so I’m excited to have a set at home. Nerd alert. 
We also found Montessori-style rugs at IKEA for $3! Okay, I’m going to stop talking about Montessori now. 
Jafta has gone Avengers crazy this past week. I found some fun storybook apps that he’s loving on my iphone. Avengers Origins: Hulk follows Stan Lee’s story narration, and Avengers Origins: Assemble features all of the superheroes and has some fun games as well. We also found a reader book that is perfect for 1st or 2nd grade boys: The Avengers: Assemble! (Level 2). I told him he had to read the book before seeing the movie, which is always a good motivation to get kids reading. Our our drive up to LA to see the movie, he demonstrated his reading comprehension by telling me all about the book. In great detail. For over an hour. Yay, reading! 
Rage Against the Minivan sometimes earns revenue through sponsored posts, which are clearly labeled, and occasional affiliate links to recommended products. I only feature products that I truly like, and my opinions are always my own.