Math Based Logic and Critical Thinking Challenges

My little cuties are always finishing assignments at different times.  I'm constantly looking for new things to keep them busy and engaged in meaningful tasks.  I created this interactive bulletin board a few years ago.  I just change the directions and the numbers from time to time and it's as simple as that.  This is a great way to improve problem solving skills, critical thinking, and logical thinking skills.

This year I took this idea and made it into early finisher/center activities. Some bright colored card stock and a little lamination go a long way!

I got the small containers at the Dollar Tree and the rest is history.  So far the kiddos are loving them.  The bright colors help, too!!

The goal is to solve for the given sum using the numbers provided in each container.  For example, if the container says, "solve for 18" the numbers inside is what they need to get a sum of 18.  Each row and column must add up to be 18.  Got it?  Easy, right?  Well, not at first.  In order for them to not be overwhelmed, I model, model, model.  I teach them the secret to getting it right every time.  Place the three biggest numbers in different rows and columns and it makes Magic Squares MUCH easier for them to solve. I also allow them to use a number line or 100s chart, if they need them. 


The set I made contains materials to solve for 15, 18, 21, 24, 27, and 30.  You can find it here.

Hello Fresh Review

So...I jumped on the Hello Fresh meal subscription bandwagon!  I stay busy and only cook about three to four days a week.  I get tired of preparing the same meals each week and rarely take the time to try out a new recipe.  I listened for weeks as several fellow teachers raved about Hello Fresh.  I finally logged on and bit the bullet!  I signed up on a Saturday and my first box was delivered on Thursday.  I was SO excited, even though I chose the meals from the weekly menu and knew exactly what was in the box.  

The mister was just as excited and helped unload the goodness.  Our biggest hurtle was deciding which meal to prepare first! 

Sizzling Beef Stir-Fry...This was my favorite of the three meals. 

Each week you have seven meals to choose from.  I picked a pork, a chicken, and a steak based meal.  There's usually a seafood or fish meal each week, which I steer clear of due to my shell fish allergy.   

Chicken Gone Nuts with a Walnut Crust, Glazed Carrots, and Roasted Broccoli

I was able to pack a couple lunches for the next day.

You can pause your meal subscription for up to 8 weeks and of course, you can cancel your subscription at any time.  Due to travel plans I have paused my meals for three weeks and have already picked my menu for my next delivery.  I'll admit I'm a bit obsessed with looking at the weekly menus! 

Creamy Mushroom Pork Chops with Roasted Brussel Sprouts and Crispy Potatoes

In the process of attempting to pause my subscription, I accidentally cancelled.  A customer service representative called asking if I was displeased with Hello Fresh.  I explained what happened and he immediately emailed me detailed directions on how to pause my subscription and corrected my account to reflect a pause instead of a cancellation.  I can't express how kind and caring this gentleman was in assisting me.  Good customer service is SO hard to find.  Honestly, this made me what to continue using this service even more. Kudos...Hello Fresh!!

Easy to follow step by step directions.

I'll keep you posted on my next shipment and in the meantime if you'd like to try Hello Fresh for yourself, simply click the link below and you can get your first shipment for less than $20.  Yes, that's $40 off!!  

Click HERE for $40 off your first Hello Fresh order.