Think Outside the Box!

I'm always on the look out for unique ideas to incorporate into my studio to keep things "fresh and fun".  I want my students to look forward to coming and wonder what unexpected things I'm up to!  Recently my sister and I took my parents up to Vermont for a couple of days to a few spots they really enjoy.  While at one of these places, I spotted this HUGE pencil and thought about all of the fun I could have with it in the studio.

I laid it on the piano to give you an idea of the size!  Both the lead and the eraser really work and have added a WOW! factor to our lessons.  Every student has asked the same question - "How do you sharpen it?"

Letting students mark off music after they have completed a song is one way I've been using it and they all look forward to having a chance with it so I'm hoping it helps provide an added amount of incentive.  Are there fun and unique things you use to keep lessons "fresh and fun"?