The other day I got a bit fed up trying to clean a large blackboard sticker that we use as a memo board on our pantry. It worked great at first, but over time it's become harder and harder to clean and is generally looking a little tatty.
I decided I needed a new solution and after a bit of browsing at the shops, came up with a new idea. Before I ended up completing my new idea to use for myself, however, it occurred to me that this same idea could be used as a fun new way to help my preschooler developing her early literacy skills.
Now I need to make more! haha
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You will need cheap photo frames (These A4 size picture frames were $2 each at the Reject Shop) some backing paper (what ever colour you like... mix it up. I like black) and some Liquid Chalk.(These are different from whiteboard/dryerase markers as they are waterbased and very vibrant! They write on all non-porous surfaces and they are available all over the place. Try art/office supply shops, cheap variety shops or ebay)
Put the backing paper behind the glass and there you have it. An instant writing board!
But, why would you use this instead of a conventional whiteboard or blackboard?
Well, besides looking cool, the ability to change the background of your writing surface to whatever you like makes this board multi-functional.
Here are just a couple of ways you could use the writing board. There are many more!
Print out your child's name on a piece of paper, put it behind the glass and let them practice writing their name.
I use the handwriting script that is used in Victorian schools. (Victorian Cursive). In Microsoft Word, put in your text, highlight it, right click, font, then tick "outline." This will give you the same sort of effect that I've used here.
You can do the same for writing the alphabet
Practicing numbers
Try putting lined paper underneath
And just wipe away the writing with a tissue or cloth and use again and again.
I find that if the writing stays there and dries for a long period of time, a damp cloth is best.
The reflective nature of the glass with the black paper behind it is fun (although very difficult to photograph well haha). They can draw patterns, designs, pictures, learn colours, just doodle, scribble whatever. Wipe off and use again and again and again.
Now, it goes without saying that if you are allowing children to use this, you must remember that it is glass and must be treated with care. You're the best judge to know whether you would trust your child using this or not. And hey, if you'd rather they didn't use it... YOU CAN! :)
Debs :)
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