I noticed the furniture, dishes and basically all items for American Girl dolls are very expensive. I’ve been going to the local thrift store lately to purchase some great bargains for these dolls. I purchased small, toy wicker chairs for less than two dollars. A solid oak jewelry dresser was the perfect size and style for a doll’s dresser, and it cost less than three dollars! Just use your imagination when looking for great deals for your child’s doll’s items.
You can find doll clothes too. Just hand wash and iron them to make them look new.

After your child has mastered stacking wood blocks, add architectural building blocks. You can purchase a variety of different styles of blocks. These sets provide a wonderful lesson in architecture.
Here are two lessons about blocks.
Cubes and Blocks
Architectural Shapes

Make a cookbook with your child this holiday season. Write down the simple recipes your child likes to cook with you. You can make a recipe box, a notebook with the recipes printed out or a handwritten one with pictures and illustrations.
This family cookbook for kids is something my children loved to do with me.

The holidays are here and it’s wonderful to spend time with your children.
Let your children help you in the kitchen and be a part of your family festivities.

Here are some simple things young children can do.
Slice the cranberry sauce
Scrub with a brush and water potatoes and carrots
Grate cheese
Pinch off bread crumbs from slices of bread
Crush crackers in a baggie with a rolling pin

Show your child how to do these activities.
Words are easier to understand with actions.

When you celebrate Hanukkah make it a fun learning activity by making your own unique timeline .
Here are some links to help you.
Hanukkah Timeline
Chanukah Timeline
Hanukkah Crafts and Activities
Bob’s Place Hanukkah Printouts and Ideas

This beautiful Advent paper chain printout is a great way to teach handwork skills and enjoy the excitement of the holidays. Young children love this activity. This is a fun way to practice counting and number recognition too. Check out more at activityvillage.co.uk for more creative and fun ideas.

This turkey is easy to make and would make a wonderful family or school project. Check out the other fun ideas for Thanksgiving at Parents.

This video has a series of napkin folding to do with your child. You can fold napkins several days before you holiday event.
Here are some more to try.

Wikisori has a great collection of cultural printouts and worksheets. These would help any teacher or parent!