Classroom News September News

September News   

    Dear Room 119 Families and Friends,

         Can you believe that we are already well on our way to the end of our first month together?  It some ways it feels like only a moment ago and it other ways it feels like we've known one another forever!  It has been a true pleasure thus far getting acquainted with all the wonderful occupants of Room 119 and I look forward to many more days together learning, laughing, and growing.

During our first few weeks we are becoming familiar with names and personalities.   Some ways in which we're doing this are; sharing in Magic Circle, playing games, and pair sharing.  We also spend time outside in the open air romping and playing.  In most instances it's best just to get out of their way and let them get to know each other on their own terms.  Amazingly, they manage to do so better than many adults!

Additionally, we continue to familiarize ourselves with the expectations of Room 119 and the entire school.  We are getting back in the practice of being corralled by four walls and sitting on our bums for longer than usual.  (And I'm just talking about myself!)  For some of your kinders the reality of this has proven a bit harsh and you may be met with a certain amount of opposition in the morning.  This too shall pass.  Gently remind them that you'll be with them at the end of the day and there are those of us who are looking forward to learning with them at school.

Also, for some of them, the vastness of the cafeteria and lunch process was a bit overwhelming at first.  Most have seemingly overcome that as well.  I simply do what I suggested to you in the previous paragraph.   I usher them through the process a few times then gently remind them I'll be back together with them in no time.  For others, it was instantaneously viewed as a massive social setting and they proceeded to rock the cafeteria world!  Trust me when I tell you that they'll all be doing that in record time!

On the academic front we've been reading aloud, practicing writing our names, coloring, cutting, sqooshing Play-Doh, and gaining an understanding of where we are individually in math as well as shapes, numbers, colors, letters, and sounds.  We are diving into our PATHS curriculum which helps us understand feelings, our own and others.  So far we've learned some really cool songs, exercises, and yoga poses.  We've also learned the lay of the land (The Peters land, that is.) both inside and out.  One of the things we seem to love most is to walk and explore!

The next few weeks will hold much of the same for our little Room 119 tribe.  We're just gaining an understanding what it feels like to be a "big" kindergartener.  Finally, thank you to all of you who help us do that by encouraging us to eat healthy foods and get plenty of rest as well as an abundant amount of fresh air.    

In return, we promise to reward you handsomely by just being a kid and reminding you on a daily basis why it's so great.  You can thank us later!

Peace,
Marshelle George and Seventeen of the Most Important People on the Planet


Room 119 Future Friendly Tip:  Walk instead of drive everywhere you can.  It's both environmentally and economically sound.  And remember when doing so to always hold hands and stick together!!!

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