What are rubbing plates?

Rubbing plates are textured surfaces that allow children to transfer raised designs onto paper using crayons, colored pencils, or other art materials. They are a simple way to explore texture, pattern, shape, and creative expression through hands-on art.

How do I use a Roylco rubbing plate?

Place a piece of paper over the rubbing plate and secure it if needed. Using the side of a crayon, colored pencil, or similar art tool, gently rub across the paper to reveal the raised design underneath. Experiment with different colors and techniques to create unique artwork.

Are all Roylco rubbing plates made from plastic?

No. Roylco rubbing plates are available in two different formats. Plastic and heavy printed cardstock. The different constructions create their own rubbing effects.

What materials can I use with rubbing plates?

Crayons and colored pencils are popular choices, but some of our durable molded plastic rubbing plates can also be used for creative activities with materials such as paint, play dough, and glue. Always follow the instructions and recommendations provided with your specific products.

What can children learn through rubbing activities?

Rubbing activities encourage children to explore texture, shape, pattern, color, and observation while developing fine motor skills and creative confidence. Rubbing plates can be incorporated into art, science, nature studies, seasonal crafts, and other hands-on learning activities.

At what age can kids start scent-based activities?

Most scent activities are appropriate starting around age 3. Once a child is past the stage of putting small objects in their mount. Simple smell-and-guess games are a great entry point before moving into more structured matching or descriptive activities.

How do I introduce scent activities in a classroom without it becoming a distraction?

Keep it short and structured. A quick "smell of the week" station or a five-minute guessing game at the start of a lesson adds sensory engagement without taking up instructional time.

What is a child is sensitive to strong smells?

Some kids, especially those with sensory processing differences, can be more sensitive to certain scents than others. Start with mild, familiar options like fruit or mint, let the child opt out at any time if they need. And avoid layering or working with too many options in one space.

Can scent activities really help grandparents, not just grandkids?

Yes. Because smell is so closely tied to memory, familiar scents are often used with older adults, including those experiencing memory loss, to spark reminiscence and comfort. A shared baking project or a garden with fragrant herbs can be meaningful across generations.

How do I find a microschool near me?

Since many microschools operate out of homes, churches, libraries, or shared community spaces - they're not always easy to spot through a standard search. Local homeschool networks, ESA program directories in your state, and work-of-mouth are typically the fastest way to find one operating nearby.

Do I need special training to bring STEAM lessons outdoors?

Not necessarily. Many outdoor STEAM activities are designed to work with the same core skills used indoors. Measurement, observation, and problem-solving just applied to a natural setting. Starting small with a nature walk is an easy way to build confidence before designing a full outdoor unit.

What's the difference between an inclusive classroom and a special education classroom?

An inclusive classroom integrates students with disabilities into the general education setting alongside their typically developing peers, often with additional supports layered in. A special education classroom, by contrast, is typically a separate, self-contained setting designed specifically for students with disabilities. Research increasingly favors the inclusive model for its academic and social benefits, though the right setting can depend on each student's individual needs.

How often should teachers use a reflection tool like the Sticky Note to Self?

While it's designed as a back-to-school exercise, many teachers find value in revisiting it a few times throughout the year — at the start of a new semester, after a particularly hard week, or during a planning day — as a quick way to reset and reconnect with their goals for the classroom.

Mack Moreau, Author at Roylco

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Mack Moreau

Posts by Mack Moreau

Free Halloween Printables for Kids | Halloween Coloring Pages

Roylco Rubbing Plates: What’s the Difference?

International Dot Day Pintables for Kids | Free Dot Day Coloring Pages

Halloween Crafts for Kids: Make an Origami Pumpkin

The Power of Smell: How the Olfactory System Shapes Memory

Roylco Back-to-School Giveaway!🎉

To Infinity & Art Supplies: Hands-On Crafts Inspired by Toy Story 5

4th of July Crafts to Celebrate America’s 250th Anniversary!

Weaving Activities for Kindergarteners: Fun Crafts That Build Big Skills

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