I like to acknowledge all the hard work that is put in by my son's teachers-especially on special occasions like Valentine's Day - but don't always have the time to do something really elaborate. Here's a great way to give a gift that is both from the heart and simple to make. Pour teacher’s favorite treats in mason or similar jars and use scrapbook paper to embellish. To give the paper a super smooth shine or a little glimmer, seal with Mod Podge. There are so many variations on this idea - you can even plant a small flower or make a mini terrarium in similar jars.

Valentine's Day is one of the most exciting celebrations for little kids. They love getting and giving cards and gifts for the friends and teachers. There are so many fun ways to make Valentine's special. Here is a cute idea that uses tissue paper and Mod Podge. I think this would make a great vase for a teacher. You could even adapt the idea for a class project-just use small, plastic cups or containers!

Here are some great  room ideas featuring planes, trains and automobiles. Be inspired by and support these wonderful  artists.

Aviation Room

Bouncing off the walls Etsy letters

Plane French message board

What do you do when you need to find a new use for an old play mat? Tonya from the This and That blog shows a cool way to turn an outgrown mattress from an infant play yard into a great play mat for little cars or trains. Check it out here. I think this mat would also make a great pirates map or even a world map!

Visit her blog for details.

http://www.tonyastaab.com/2009/04/a-mattress-to-a-play-mat.html

I've never been to Japan, but I love Japanese arts and design. I was delighted to find the Origami Mommy blog, about a crafty  family that lives in Japan.Origami Mommy Shares how to make trucks out of everyday milk cartons. Her truck tutorial that can be found here features real functioning wheels. See the project here:
http://www.origamimommy.org/2009/07/recycled-milk-carton-truck-tutorial-.html#comments

 The Japanese packaging that she uses for these makes them even more special.

Plane theme makes great birthday for toddlers. Our first airplane-themed birthday party is from Nounces.com. In celebration of her two-year-old’s birthday, she took the plane theme to new heights: equipped with custom goodie bags, tickets and a marvelous cake, I can only imagine the excitement her little boy felt.

The invitations are little plane tickets.

I adore the little luggage goodie bags!

Find more pictures here.

http://nounces.com/tag/airplane/

We're getting the month moving with a whole lot of projects that feature things on wheels: planes, trains, automobiles and more. First up, is this handy little truck that uses chalkboard paint. Make a cute, custom chalkboard for your favorite little one.

This month, we’re featuring your favorite projects on wheels. Join us for a month of transportation themed crafts.

From, buses to cars to planes, younger and older children alike are fascinated by things on wheels.  My sons have both gone through stages where they were completely obsessed with trains, then later with matchbox cars and then planes and helicopters. But whether you have boys or girls, planes cars and trains offer great tools for learning. Use these craft projects to teach lessons about geography, how people and supplies are moved from place to place and even simple science lessons like how engines and wheels work. This month, we'll be showcasing crafts, room décor and party ideas so stay tuned. Happy new year and happy crafting!