Fun Bags

I teach at PS 35 in Hollis, Queens, New York. The K-5th grade children who attend my school come from over 35 different countries and many speak another language at home. Like children everywhere, my second graders are eager students, so they want to continue their learning when they are at home. Unfortunately, when many of them go home the only source of stimulation is the tv set. Their parents want their children to continue to learn at home as well, but money and time are very limited resources in their households. Fun Bags are the answer to the children's and parents' desire to learn at home. On weekends and vacations, I send home a bag filled with educational games, flashcards, and books on tape. The children come back to school on Monday and describe how they used the Fun Bags and what they learned. Many children report playing the games with siblings and parents. Fun Bags make learning a family experience. I have filled the Fun Bag with homemade books on tape and supplies purchased from dollar stores. I am writing this proposal because I would like to add higher quality materials to the bags and also to help my fellow second grade teachers set up Fun Bags in their classrooms. I am looking for donations of strong, sturdy bags or backpacks with zippers or buckles that close well. These bags should be large enough to hold books and games. I am also looking for donations of books on tape. Also, I am looking for easily transportable educational games. There are many card games that teach math and reading that would be appropriate for the Fun Bags. Creative games that are resuable and educational are welcome as well. When my students have the choice of watching television or playing with Fun Bags, they choose Fun Bags. Students from other grades have heard about the Fun Bags from friends and relatives and come by my room to ask to borrow them. A long term goal will make Fun Bags available to every child at PS 35. Any donation to the Fun Bag program will be greatly appreciated.