Using Webkinz Pets in the Classroom – Turning Toys Into Tools – Teaching With Technology
Have you ever stood in front of your class presenting an action-filled lesson only to feel like your students were more interested in their toys and life outside of school? So often the aspects of life that excite children the most are banned or excluded from the school curriculum. What would happen to our classrooms and the engagement levels of our students if we turn toys into learning tools? When I look inside the bags my daughters carry around with them everywhere I see their digital camera, Nintendo DS, phone, Webkinz pets, and an iPod. This made me ponder this idea: what if I could harness the enthusiasm kids have for their toys and turn them into learning tools?
