I found an old easle-style chalk board at the Danville Flea Mall for 4 bucks!  It has really come in handy.  We mostly use it for Helana to practice her handwriting, as a fun alternative to sitting at the table with a pencil and paper.  Helana has never before shown an interest in drawing.  She suddenly took up the chalk and began drawing.  She says it is a spider.  I think it is cool.  She also practiced writing the word "am".