Sunday, November 29, 2015

Holiday celebration videos

Diwali, Kwanzaa, Hanukkah, and Christmas are all discussed during the month of December in our classroom.  For each holiday, there will be a short video assisting in the explanation of the celebration.  While no participation in right/wrong discussion regarding these holidays will happen; we want each parent to be aware of the videos being shared.  
While these celebrations are important and create the morals and standards that some of our families build their lives around, the conversations regarding a child's view will never begin with a staff's inquiry or be challenged by individuals within our classroom setting.  It is joyous to hear your children share their thoughts with others, of all topics, as these conversations are building friendships and trust.  

Diwali video - Festival of Lights

Hanukkah video


Kwanzaa video





Sunday, November 15, 2015

Tooth brushing with our students

Tooth brushing time can sometimes be hectic, getting 20 four-five year olds to practice dental hygiene. In pre k each day we have organized floor centers.

Tuesday - using manipulatives to work on fine motor
Wednesday - using dry erase boards to practice writing the letter of the week and our name
Thursday - puzzles
Friday - board games

Pictured below is Friday board games where Miss Jasay works on the floor teaching the rules of the game for a week during center time before its introduced during tooth brushing small group play. Learning how to follow the rules, take turns, overcome loss, and working together happens!






Teddy Bear Parade

Friday we celebrated National Teddy Bear day through our "Teddy Bear Parade."  Students made floats for their teddy bears (and other animals) with their families at home.  During small group students lined up and walked through each classroom at Children First.  As they pulled their floats they grew in confidence!  As they waved their hands they understood more about presenting in public.  

What an incredible time they had showing off the perfect float they each made!