Blog Archive

Hanukkah: How We Celebrate

Hanukkah is a very important holiday to our family.

It holds a special place in our hearts.

There are many ways to celebrate the holiday.

Here is how we celebrate!

Hanukkah: How We Celebrate

Hanukkah: How We Celebrate


When the kids were preschoolers, we introduced them to holidays around the world. 


We created beautiful materials that were culturally sensitive to ensure that our children would learn to love and respect those of the Jewish faith.


Montessori-inspired Hanukkah Printable Pack


Montessori-inspired Hanukkah Printable Pack I


Little did we know that a few years later, our oldest adopted daughter would learn she's part Jewish after taking a an Ancestry DNA test. 


Since that time we have continued to learn about and celebrate Hanukkah out of respect for our daughter. 


We created another fabulous resource for all to enjoy.



Montessori-inspired Hanukkah Printable Pack II


Montessori-inspired Hanukkah Printable Pack II


Once our children understood Hanukkah and the significance of the holiday to those in the Jewish faith, we began to celebrate as a family.


This was incredibly important to us, as it was a way to support our adopted daughter and her heritage.


8 Nights of Hanukkah


8 Nights of Hanukkah


During the eight nights of Hanukkah we take time to celebrate in a variety of ways.


When we're on the go, we bring our Electric Silver Hanukkah Menorah to ensure we can still light candles each night.

Games of Dreidel occur at least one night during our celebration.


Children's Books About Hanukkah

Children's Books About Hanukkah


When the kids were young, we enjoyed reading books about Hanukkah each night. 


Below is a list of some of our favorites.


The Story of Hanukkah Book


Hanukkah Bear


Celebrate Hanukkah


Elmo's Little Dreidel


Hershel and the Hanukkah Goblins


Happy Hanukkah, Curious George


Shmelf the Hanukkah Elf


Latke, the Lucky Dog


Even now, years later, my kids still remember these books!



Hanukkah Dinner


Hanukkah Dinner


One of my kids' favorite aspects of celebrating Hanukkah is our delicious Hanukkah feast.


The kids enjoy:

  • Brisket
  • Latkes
  • Homemade Applesauce
  • Challah Bread with Homemade Jam
  • Sufganiyots

As the kids get older we add more and more delicious foods to our Hanukkah celebration, spacing things out over the eight days.


Hanukkah Gift Ideas


Hanukkah Gift Ideas


When celebrating Hanukkah, we try to stick to gifts that embrace and celebrate Jewish culture, to honor our daughter.


Here are some gifts we've given in the past that have been loved and used.


Hanukkah Foam Toy Menorah


This is a perfect gift for a little one who isn't quite ready for a real menorah. 


We gave this to our youngest daughter. She did not want to put it away after the holiday season.


I loved how she was able to participate in festivities safely in a way that was appropriate for her development.


Hanukkah Dreidel Pop It


Who knew there was a dreidel pop it?! 


This was a great sensory gift to help our youngest keep her fingers busy during Hanukkah festivities and traditions.


It's well made and has lasted for years.


Love, Lights, Hanukkah! Movie


This is one of our favorite Hanukkah themed Hallmark movies. We watch it every year.


I love how it compares Hanukkah and Christmas with a respect for both!


Double Holiday Movie


This movie shares so many fabulous ideas on how to celebrate Hanukkah! 


I love that there is an idea presented for each day of the holiday.


Modern Jewish Baker Cookbook


Jewish baked goods are so yummy! If you know someone loves baking and they love celebrating Hanukkah (and other Jewish 


Sababa Cookbook


In my opinion, Jewish cuisine is absolutely delicious. This cookbook has so many wonderful recipes to try. It's one of my favorites!


Smithsonian History Visual Dictionary


This is the perfect Hanukkah gift for the history lover in your life. Not only does it cover the history of the Jewish people, but the history of the world.



Gourmet Olive Oil Sampler


Oil is a very important part of the celebration of Hanukkah. This gift of oils is so enjoyable. I have enjoyed all the flavor they add to mealtime.


World Religions: The Great Faiths Explored and Explained


This book is a great way to introduce the Jewish faith in comparison to other religions around the world. 


I am so thankful for all of the memories our family has made celebrating Hanukkah. 


These memories have been so special to our daughter, as they are yet another way that we show we accept her.


Happy Hanukkah to all of those celebrating!


If you enjoyed this post, you may also enjoy the resources below.


Free Hanukkah Sentence Challenges Free Hanukkah Counting Candles

Hanukkah: How We Celebrate


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What are the 2 Types of Reactive Attachment Disorder?

No two cases of Reactive Attachment Disorder are exactly the same. 

Every child and trauma experience are unique and different.

However, there is a differentiation when it comes to specific symptoms. 

There are two types of Reactive Attachment Disorder.

Both types of Reactive Attachment Disorder operate on a spectrum, meaning that some cases are far more mild or severe than others.

Understanding a child's type of Reactive Attachment Disorder can help when choosing what types of treatment may be beneficial.

So, what are the 2 types of Reactive Attachment Disorder you ask?

Let's go through all of the details!


What are the 2 Types of Reactive Attachment Disorder


What are the 2 Types of Reactive Attachment Disorder?


Before we dive into the two types of Reactive Attachment Disorder, it's important to understand what all children with Reactive Attachment Disorder have in common.


What Is Reactive Attachment Disorder?

What Is Reactive Attachment Disorder?


I can think of no better way to understand Reactive Attachment Disorder (RAD) than by reading the resource above. 

Not only does it explain what happens to the brain of a child who experiences trauma early in life, but it also gives a glimpse of what family life looks like raising a child with RAD at different ages and phases.

The Worst Cases of Reactive Attachment Disorder

The Worst Cases of Reactive Attachment Disorder


There is a set of classic symptoms related to Reactive Attachment Disorder that all children with the diagnosis display in one form or another.

The resource above discusses those symptoms in detail and explains what the worst case scenarios may look like for all involved.

I wish I could say that symptoms of Reactive Attachment Disorder vary based on what type a child has, but that's not true.

Children with different types of RAD just go about doing things in different ways.

150+ Ways Children and Teens with Reactive Attachment Disorder Push Others Away

150+ Ways Children and Teens with Reactive Attachment Disorder Push Others Away


There are so many ways to push others away when struggling with Reactive Attachment Disorder, no matter what type a child or teen has. 

The resource above gives over 150 ways caregivers may see this happen in the home and/or in the community.

So, now that you understand what Reactive Attachment Disorder is and how it plays out, no matter what type a child or teen has, let's talk about the two types of Reactive Attachment Disorder!

I'm excited to share this information with you, not just as someone who knows a lot about Reactive Attachment Disorder, but as a caregiver of two adopted daughters, each one having a different type.

Inhibited Reactive Attachment Disorder


A child or teen with inhibited Reactive Attachment Disorder tends to avoid others and social situations all together. 

This is especially true when it comes to spending time with family and caregivers.

These situations cause the child or teen with Reactive Attachment Disorder to feel unsafe.

Avoiding eye contact and staying emotionally withdrawn are normal.

The emotions of a child or teen with inhibited Reactive Attachment Disorder remain hidden until they become too big. Emotional regulation is very difficult.

At times you will notice that emotions don't match situations and are inappropriate, or there's a lack of emotional expression altogether.

A child or teen with inhibited Reactive Attachment Disorder isn't one to show affection or accept affection from others, especially when it involves physical contact.

You will notice a child with inhibited Reactive Attachment Disorder watching others closely, but the child or teen will hesitate to engage or not engage at all.

The child or teen with RAD chooses to isolate and remain alone, as this feels safe.

Where other children and teens feel comforted by caregivers and other adults when distressed and consoled, a child or teen with inhibited Reactive Attachment Disorder does not. 

What does Inhibited Reactive Attachment Disorder Look Like in the Home?


Our daughter Princess has inhibited Reactive Attachment Disorder. 

Just as the diagnostic criteria states, she loves her alone time and is the ultimate introvert.

We've learned to respect these parts of our daughter and allow her the freedom to be alone when she desires, in order to prevent unnecessary unsafe behaviors.

There are parts of her that will try social events. These events are very scary and anxiety ridden. 

When we follow her lead as to what she wants to do and where she wants to go, tagging along for extra support, some social experiences can go well.

Princess holds in her emotions as long as possible to avoid conversation and processing. This usually results in a RAD fit later on.

She does not like affection of any kind. 

We've learned to respect this about our daughter and do not initiate affection. 

Instead, we let her know we're here for her whenever she wants physical affection. She can initiate at any time.

While I wait for my two hugs a year, I do whatever I can to show Princess I love her in ways that she feels safe accepting.

Following Princess' lead in healing (when possible) has drastically lessened the amount of unsafe behaviors in the home.

She has chosen to to accept love from her family, and healed in significant ways.

Had she not made the choice she did, there was a definitely a chance her behaviors would escalate and become so unsafe, she would not be able to live in the home.

Disinhibited Social Engagement Disorder (DSED) or Disinhibited Reactive Attachment Disorder


A child or teen with disinhibited Reactive Attachment Disorder or Disinhibited Social Engagement Disorder is the exact opposite of a child or teen with inhibited Reactive Attachment Disorder in so many ways.

In social situations a child or teen with disinhibited Reactive Attachment Disorder is overly friendly with EVERYONE, including strangers.

There is no understanding of "stranger danger." 

The child or teen with disinhibited Reactive Attachment Disorder may go with anyone, without checking in with caregivers first.

Even more concerning is the child or teen's need to seek out affection from others in unsafe ways. 

This is incredibly scary for caregivers.

There is a constant need for attention or connection with anyone and everyone.

A child or teen with disinhibited Reactive Attachment Disorder often develops superficial relationships with others.

Behaviors become inappropriate and dangerous towards others when the CONSTANT need for attention or connection are not met.

A child or teen with disinhibited Reactive Attachment Disorder does not understand social boundaries.

The child often acts younger than her age, and in very inappropriate ways.

What does Disinhibited Reactive Attachment Disorder Look Like in the Home?


Our daughter Sunshine has disinhibited Reactive Attachment Disorder or Disinhibited Social Engagement Disorder, a type of Reactive Attachment Disorder.

She is a classic example of all of the the traits listed above to the point that it is unsafe for our family to have her live at home with us.

Sunshine has been in and out of multiple residential placements, and is now in long term residential care.

No matter how much attention and connection we provide, it is not enough. 

She demands more in unsafe ways, attempting to hold us "hostage."

Members of our family have been victims of verbal, emotional, and physical aggression on a regular basis.

Sunshine continues to display the same behaviors in residential facilities towards peers and adults.

It's still my hope that Sunshine's brain will heal and change over a long period of time, but we do not know if that is possible.

Which Type of Reactive Attachment Disorder is Easier?


As a caregiver of two children, one with each type of Reactive Attachment Disorder, I can honestly say that both are equally hard to manage.

I attribute Princess' healing to her cognitive abilities, not to the type of Reactive Attachment Disorder she has.

Sunshine has multiple diagnoses which include developmental and intellectual delays, as well as a mood disorder. This is why I am unsure if healing is possible.

Both girls were equally difficult as toddlers and young children.

The elementary years were an incredible challenge, one exhibiting depression and suicidal behaviors while the other became homicidal. 

Neither type of Reactive Attachment Disorder are easier; they're just different.


How Can Knowing What Type of Reactive Attachment Disorder My Child or Teen Has Help Me?


Knowing what type of Reactive Attachment Disorder your child or teen has can help when seeking out treatment options.

Though both of my adopted daughters have Reactive Attachment Disorder, each one has required the opposite approach in situations with behaviors in order for healing to occur.

They've required an opposite approach when parenting is concerned.

What works for one, does NOT work for the other.

Despite what professionals may say, there is no one perfect evidence based treatment that will help a child or teen heal from RAD. 

If there was, all would be cured.

Just like every brain and trauma experience is unique, so is the healing process, if healing is possible.

Get to know your child or teen.

The best recommendations we have are in the resource below.

RAD Treatment for Kids

RAD Treatment for Children


Whether you have a child or teen with inhibited Reactive Attachment Disorder or one with disinhibited Reactive Attachment Disorder, or one of each like us, healing can happen, when possible.

Remember how your child or teen ended up with Reactive Attachment Disorder.

None of it is the child's or teen's fault.

Both inhibited and disinhibited Reactive Attachment Disorder are a result of trauma experienced in utero and/or during the first 18 months of life.

Don't give up hope!

If you enjoyed this post, you may also like the resources below.

Famous Cases of Reactive Attachment Disorder A Caregiver's Fears When Raising a Child with Reactive Attachment Disorder 4 Steps to Understanding RAD Behaviors Reactive Attachment Disorder and Lying 8 Differences Between RAD Fits and Autism Meltdowns Reactive Attachment Disorder: How to Address Behaviors


What are the 2 Types of Reactive Attachment Disorder


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Fall Math Activities with Free Printables

For each season of the year, I love to put out math review activities that specifically focus on addition, subtraction, multiplication and division.

Seasonal manipulatives always make math work more inviting.

These fall math activities have been such a hit!

I love how they incorporate pumpkins, leaves, apples, and acorns.

They definitely bring the feel of fall into the classroom.

And because you can never have enough fall math activities, I've included some new free printables in this post just for you!

Fall Math Activities with Free Printables

Fall Math Activities with Free Printables


Acorn Addition Clip Cards


Acorn Addition Clip Cards

When I think of fall, I think of squirrels collecting acorns for the winter months.

In this activity children will add acorns using the manipulatives provided, if necessary.

Once an answer is found, it is marked with a glass bead and set to the side.

The printable includes all addition facts with numbers 0-9.  

I like to rotate out which math problems I put in the tray, to help kids review as many as they can during the fall months.

Source: The printable for this activity is included in my Autumn Math Fact Clip Cards Bundle.

Leaf Subtraction Clip Cards


Leaf Subtraction Clip Cards

During fall, so many leaves fall to the ground.

This process of leaves falling is perfect when practicing subtraction.

Children subtract leaves that have fallen from the trees by laying out the total number of leaves and taking away those that have fallen.

A glass bead or other manipulative can be used to mark the answer on the card, before setting it aside to start a new problem.

All basic subtraction facts (when working with single digit addition) are included in the printable.

Source: The printable for this activity is included in my Autumn Math Fact Clip Cards Bundle.


Pumpkin Multiplication Clip Cards


Pumpkin Multiplication Clip Cards

It seems pumpkins pop up everywhere during the fall season, which is the inspiration for our pumpkin multiplication activity!

Kids create groups of pumpkins as specified on each clip card. 

One could use pumpkin seeds as well, grouping them on felt, foam, or paper pumpkins.

Then they practice their skip counting (or counting) skills to find the answer.

Once the answer is found, it is marked by a glass bead and set aside as problem solving continues.

All single digit multiplication facts through 9x9 are included in this printable. 

You can choose to make all available, or select specific math facts to practice with.

Source: The printable for this activity is included in my Autumn Math Fact Clip Cards Bundle.

Apple Division Clip Cards


Apple Division Clip Cards

So many apples are picked and divided into bushels or pies during the fall season. 

This apple division activity was inspired by this concept. 

Children divide apples into groups to find the answer to the division problem on each card.

If you'd like to add mini pie plates, or tiny bushel-like containers to the activity, feel free!

Once the answer is found a glass bead or other manipulative can be used to mark the clip card.

All basic division problems are included in these cards.

They can be used all together for the ultimate review, or separately, however you'd like to group them.

Source: The printable for this activity is included in my Autumn Math Fact Clip Cards Bundle.

Autumn Math Facts Clip Cards Bonus Freebie


Autumn Math Facts Clip Cards Bonus Freebie

If you're looking to expand math fact learning to bigger numbers, consider our fun freebie!

This Fall Math Facts Bonus freebie includes even more math facts that focus on the number ten.

They are designed the same way the other cards are and can use the same manipulatives.

Source: This printable is a Subscriber Only Freebie. For your copy, follow the directions at the bottom of this post.

Fall Numbers Activities with Free Printables


Montessori-inspired Fall Counting Activities with Free Printables

If you're working with younger children and are looking for simple counting activities, be sure to check out the resource above. 

It focuses on learning to identify, count, and write numbers 1-30!

There's also a freebie included, which is always fabulous!

Don't forget your free printables!

Directions on How to Obtain Subscriber Only Freebies

1. Click on the Subscriber's link at the bottom of this post.


2. Subscribe to our free newsletter.


3. Open the thank you message you receive in your e-mail, after subscribing. (Be sure to check your spam folder, as sometimes it ends up there.)


4. Click the confirmation link in the thank you message.


5. Once the confirmation is complete, you will receive another e-mail message with the Subscriber Only Freebies.


6. Click on the link.


7. Select the Minimalism, Montessori, or Mental Health Printables Library.

8. Find the printable pack you are looking for listed in alphabetical order, click on it, and voila!


We hope you enjoy your free printable.


Note: If you are already a newsletter subscriber, open your most recent newsletter. At the bottom you will find a link to the Free Printables Library.



If you enjoyed this post, you may also like the resources below.

Apple Activities for Kids with Free Printables Fall Harvest Practical Life Activities Fall Harvest Stamping Activities for Kids American Football Unit Squirrel Activities for Tots & Preschoolers Apples Language Printable Pack Apples Math Printable PackAutumn Math Printable Pack


Fall Math Activities with Free Printables







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Music History Activities for Kids with Free Printables

Music history can be so much fun for children when composers and music are brought to life!

These Music History Activities for Kids with Free Printables are such a great way to guide you through the process.

There are so many different ways to use them, depending on the age group you're working with.

Music is so important for the emotional and cognitive development of children. 


Music History Activities for Kids with Free Printables

Music History Activities for Kids with Free Printables


Music Composers Picture and Description Match Up


Music Composers Picture and Description Match Up

These music history nomenclature and description cards can be used in so many ways!

In the picture above the picture cards and description cards are used in a matching activity.

For younger kids you can use just the picture nomenclature cards.

Older kids may enjoy the description cards.

In my classroom, I like to introduce a composer a week adding more to our nomenclature card activity as the year goes on.

It's also fun to create a timeline using these cards.

Source: I created these cards as part of the Music History Printable Pack

Music Composer Name First Letter Sound Clip Cards


Music Composer Name First Letter Sound Clip Cards


Learning the names of music composers can be fun and also challenging. 


One way to help children learn names through pictures is to practice the first letter sounds of last names.


Kids can use the glass beads provided to mark their answers. So many other manipulatives could also be used. 


Source: I created these cards as part of the Music History Printable Pack.



Music Composers Time Period Sorting Activity


Music Composers Time Period Sorting Activity


It's one thing to learn music composer's names and stories, and it's another thing to learn about music time periods in history and when each composer lived.


This activity introduces children to music time periods in history and allows to children to learn which composer lived when.


Understanding music time periods in history can help children understand why composers created music in the ways they did.


Children sort each composer by time period.


Source: I created these cards as part of the Music History Printable Pack.


Music Composer Listening Activity


Music Composer Listening Activity

It's fun to be able to identify a music composer by picture and know their name.

It's incredibly exciting and satisfying to be able to identify a music composer by their music.

The cards in this activity help you do this.

Each music card includes a composer and one of their most famous pieces.

Children can use technology in the classroom to look up and play each piece of music.

These cards can provide the perfect resource for listening games as well.

Younger children may enjoy drawing a picture while each piece is played initially. 

These cards can also be paired up with music composer nomenclature cards.

If you have older children who are up for the ultimate challenge, you can combine music composer nomenclature cards, description cards, and composition cards.

Source: I created these cards as part of the Music History Printable Pack.


FREE Montessori-inspired Music Composer Clip Cards


FREE Montessori-inspired Music Composer Clip Cards


Children will love a second clip card option when learning music composers. 


When using these cards children mark or clip the last name of the composer in the picture. 


The first and sometimes middle name of the composer is provided.


Music composer picture nomenclature cards can be used as a control for this activity.


Source: This printable is a Subscriber's Only Freebie. For your copy, follow the directions below.


Directions on How to Obtain Subscriber Only Freebies


1. Click on the Subscriber's link at the bottom of this post.


2. Subscribe to our free newsletter.


3. Open the thank you message you receive in your e-mail, after subscribing. (Be sure to check your spam folder, as sometimes it ends up there.)


4. Click the confirmation link in the thank you message.


5. Once the confirmation is complete, you will receive another e-mail message with the Subscriber Only Freebies.


6. Click on the link.


7. Select the Minimalism, Montessori, or Mental Health Printables Library.

8. Find the printable pack you are looking for listed in alphabetical order, click on it, and voila!


We hope you enjoy your free printable.


Note: If you are already a newsletter subscriber, open your most recent newsletter. At the bottom you will find a link to the Free Printables Library.


Subscribe to our FREE Newsletter


If you enjoyed this post, you may also like the resources below.


Carol of the BellsBell Activities for TotsMusic Theory Activiites and Printables Teaching Music in a Montessori Classroom The Best Musical Instruments to Use in a Montessori Classroom Montessori-inspired Music Theory Bundle Montessori-inspired Music Notes Printable Pack




Music History Activities for Kids with Free Printables


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