Supplies!

Who would order a three-foot high box of cornstarch packing peanuts? A preschool teacher.

Giant bin of sculpture 'Nuudles'

The field of early childhood education often requires the use of unique materials. We've found ourselves scouring the internet looking for bottlecaps, large boxes of googly eyes, even guitar picks for various art lessons. So, where do we find these unique materials? The answer comes with time and some creative thinking. For the most basic needs at the best prices, we've found we can rely on the following companies:

Dick Blick  has a variety of art materials that can be inexpensively purchased and delivered.  Additionally, this website has many art lessons available for download with great instructions and a list of supplies--very cool inspirations.

School Specialty which also as an affiliate, Sax are a great place to purchase supplies because they have materials that are specialized for young children.

If you are looking for a more non-traditional route, recycling bins and used paper have many uses in the classroom.  Zero Landfill is another local organization that collects old interior design supplies (think carpet squares and wallpaper samples) and then opens its doors to teachers to dig through the found treasures.

Where have you found unique materials?

(Disclaimer: This is not an advertisement for the above companies, it is just a helpful resource for teachers.)