What's in the [work]BOX: Handmade File Folder Games

Several of my homeschooling friends are using file folder games in their workboxes. Some have found pre-made file folder games at The Dollar Tree, Wal-Mart, or teacher stores. Some have bought books that teach you how to make your own.

I'm a frugal momma so I am going to share with you how you can do this on your own while on a budget. Go to the thrift store, yard sales, the dollar store and purchase educational workbooks. They even can be used!

Here are two that I am using now:

This one is used and was $.10.

This one is from 1970. It had never been written in!

I used paint chips and file folders to make these games. Big Snail completed this game in minutes so we are moving on to 11-20. We are going to use this set, from our friend at Homeschool Creations.

Little Snail is learning to spell her name, so I made a name puzzle.

This pocket is made with paint cards. The tutorial of how I did this is below. A velcro dot keeps the pocket closed.

She has to match the pieces to the ones on the strip.

Another counting game that is passed down to Little Snail because "this is a baby game."

Rhyming card game from the 1970 workbook.

Sequencing game from the McGraw-Hill workbook.

How to make a file folder pocket out of paint chips:

1. You will need two large paint chip cards. These are from Lowe's.

2. Fold the top of the first paint chip over about 1" or so. This is the flap.

3. You are going to want to fold the other paint chip "long ways."

4. Fold the edges on 3 sides of the second paint chip by about 3/4".

5. Hot glue the paint chip with the flap to your file folder.

6. Hot glue the other paint chip in place. Use a velcro dot to keep the flap closed and decorate your pocket.

Handmade file folder games can be very addictive. The possibilities are endless and with the two workbooks I have, I can make over 100 file folder games. No need for me to get a book to teach me how to make them....no need for me to search for ideas on what to make....no need for me to buy books with templates...and no need for me to purchase pre-made ones. And, because I used grade specific workbooks, my file folder games will be age and developmentally appropriate! Have fun!

And, oh yeah, in case you want an update...it has been 2.5 weeks! Go me!