We had our first of three Hollin's students with us today. Emily Reynolds is hoping to become a teacher and chose to use our school for her work study. Today she had each child use an eye dropper to drop white paint onto blue paper to make clouds. Then they children told her what they saw in their clouds. We had several reluctant children but Emily convinced them it would be fun. She's already acquired an important teacher skill! I will be assessing children over the next week so I will have our Hollin's helpers do fun activities with the children.
Our class discussed the school theme for the year and how we would connect our world by "visiting" different countries. I pointed out we already have a connection to India and China through our students. As we discussed how we could travel the world, I mentioned the seven seas touched every continent (No they didn't know what the word continent meant but that's another lesson.). The glamour of sailing caught their attention and they chose a class name. Don't bother to ask them for details because I swore them all to secrecy until next Friday morning (the 17th).
To begin our travels we have to first understand from whence we start so the children are learning their addresses. One already knew hers and several knew their city (town) name. Some of the streets are a bit difficult to say at this age but we'll work on it.
I'm sure you will hear about the fire drill today. As predicted, the sound was incredibly loud but my little friends put down their food and walked to the door. Grace got there first and turned to encourage the others to move faster. I opened the door and told them to follow her. If I didn't know better I would have sworn they were following an adult. She calmly, but quickly, walked to our safe spot on the play ground and stood silently facing the fence. Her confidence inspired the others and we had the best first, fire drill ever in my history of teaching! Thanks Grace.
Tomorrow is the end of the first week which is truly exhausting for children. Don't be surprised if you a few tears in the morning (I meant from your child!). Their little bodies will adjust quickly and next Friday will be easier. They do have Music and Spanish first thing in the morning. They seem to really enjoy these classes so you might want to mention these to them.
I hope everyone read their Quick Notes and noticed the Gatherings scheduled for next Tuesday night. The Early Learners will meet at 7:00 in the Art room. Even if your child was here last year it is still important to attend. You will meet their Enrichment teachers, have a chance to sign up for several things and give me your e-mail addresses. We will address common questions that arise like outside play in the winter, fruit break foods and Fall Festival. We will try to answer your school centered questions also but please save questions about your child for a more private time. I love talking about your children with you so feel free to set up a time with me for us to discuss any concerns.
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