A lapbook is basically a learning tool that is interactive, made from a pocket
folder or manila folder, and can be targeted for almost subject that you teach. Another word for a lapbook might be a portfolio. It is a fun way for younger children to remember lessons because the lapbook is fun to make and fun to play with after it is completed.There is no secret that children learn best when they are able to delve into their projects. Hands-on activities improve how a child remembers information. What do you think...is it more fun to read a worksheet about volcanoes, or to build an actual working model?
How are lapbooks made? Another good question! Lapbooks are made from pocket folders or manila folders. You can use other materials as well. The contents are mini books and games/activities that you paste into the folder. You use the pockets of a pocket folder as a way to make flaps that your child can flip out to find more information. There are are endless ways you glue things into the folder. You can add recipes, small worksheets, and other fun things to do, along with the mini books.
It does take effort on a parent's part to put one of these things together, but websites like Hands of a Child, have made it extremely easy by providing pre-made materials for lapbooks called project packs. They have virtually any subject that you can imagine, and the site is continuing to grow. If you want to give lapbooks a whirl, they offer quarterly freebies, so you can try your hand at making one!
Benefits of Lapbooks
**Encourages creativity in your child
**Can be used with a unit study or as a standalone learning tool
**Easy to store and use as review material
I strongly recommend that you visit Hands of a Child to see a lapbook in action. You don't realize the wealth of material you can cover until you actually make one yourself. Warning: They are addicting!
Posted by: connie snyder on Thursday, February 21, 2008
I like to see the lapbooks for preschool age children and younger.