First Time To SMILE

Three simple steps for getting to know SMILE:

1) Make a user account on the SMILE website
Use the link below to create a SMILE user account. With an account you can add your comments and ratings to SMILE activities, as well as create private and public lists of resources for yourself or to share with others.

2) Search SMILE
Jump right in! Open the howtosmile.org home page in another window, then try this:

  • Type a search term in the home page search bar and explore the results. We like to use the term "sound" for an introduction to searching SMILE.
    Take a look at the General Search video
  • Filter your search: Look to the left of the search results and check off what you want to filter your search. Perhaps you're searching for activities that can be done in under ten minutes; look under Learning Time and click the "5 to 10 minutes" option. Take a look at the Filtered Search video
  • Advanced Search: Back on the home page, look under the search box and click on 'Advanced Search'. This narrows what you are looking for. Notice that below the Subject, Age Range, and Resource Type options, you can also search by criteria such as Source Institution, Language, Materials Cost, etc. -- click on the arrow to the left of these categories to see all your search options. Perhaps you're looking for activities that cost less than $1 per student, and you need an activity for students 6-8 years oldÂ…. Check these options, enter a search term, and then see what comes up! Take a look at the Advanced Search video

3) Make a List
SMILE can make your (informal educator) life easier! Once you've found a resource you like in a search, you can add it to a list. You'll see the "Add to List" link on the right side of each record, under "Go to activity" and "SMILE details". Here's where you can create a new list or add to an existing one.

  • Take a look at the Make-A-List video
  • Try searching for a specific workshop theme, then create a list for the activities you might use. Add comments about why you chose the the resource
  • Lists can be public or private; set your preference on the your list page (once you've created an account and are logged in)