YouTubing

If you are reading this blog chances are you’re already somewhat internet savvy- and if you are anything like me you are always ‘googling’ for new activity ideas or the next playground craze. But have you tried ‘You-Tubing’ for ideas? http://www.youtube.co.nz/ is full of fantastic video footage to inspire and refresh your programme planning.

Search for science experiments and you will find some elaborate experiments as well as simple scientific activities that require no more than a bar of ivory soap and a microwave! My favourite scientist to YouTube right now is American, Steve Spangler http://www.stevespanglerscience.com/ You’ll find him educating and entertaining for both children and adults.

If you look up flash mobs, you’ll find numerous examples of dance mobs from around the world, with dance moves that children and staff could learn with relative ease. One of my favourite flash mobs clips would have to be the ‘Sound of Music Central Station Antwerp Mob’ http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7EYAUazLI9k It’s catchy, fun and most importantly the music and moves are appropriate for children to learn.

Type in painting and you‘ll come across one minute painter Brandon Mc Connell, http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0CFPg1m_Umg Now you may want to slow the pace down a bit, but another great idea to refresh your programming.

Little tip: Be careful not to breach any of your internet policies as you can’t always control the imagery that may pop up. Always view the entire clip yourself before allowing the children to view it and enlarge the clip to full screen to block out any ‘featured clips’ which feature in the side panel.

Happy and safe YouTubing everyone!

Anastasia