Kids have great ideas: Space Projects

When we began our space unit (as requested by the kids), we collected ideas as to what we would use to learn more and how we would show our learning. We researched online, read many books, and searched a few apps. Then, we looked at our ideas and decided to turn spheres into space objects. There were several good ideas on how to do this, and paper mache was the winner.

We began by tearing many newspapers and collecting enough for everyone (we managed to procure a little extra for other classes). We had enthusiasm!

Then came the beautifully, messy part of the project. The water and glue were mixed and paper mache was placed over some balloons. The children decided that the moons would be small, the planets would be medium, and the sun and stars should be big. The big balloons were a little oblong, but we decided to continue on with our project.

We added some colors that closely resembled the pictures we were able to find. We were a little over-zealous with brushes, so our objects now have craters and mountains. We liked the added touch. 

We brainstormed all the fun facts we learned over the week and came up with more than 20 items. Everyone chose their three favorite facts about their object and neatly wrote out a space report. They worked hard, were very creative, and strong thinkers during our space unit. 

Action Words: Something You Do!

We began our discussion on action words (verbs) today. The goal of this activity is not to memorize what a verb is, but to explore words. Learning about different types of words will help us expand our vocabulary and if using the terms verb and noun will help get the kiddos thinking about types of words, we are successful!

To start our verb unit, we recorded some of favorite actions. The kids planned how to go about filming, problem solved issues that would arise (too loud, photo-bombing, etc), as well as made sure we had a variety of actions to film. Nice work!

Measurement

We started a unit on measurement today. We discussed how measurement helps us with many different things, including:

• building houses or buildings
• picking clothes that fit
• picking a trailer for your 4-wheeler

We then took some time to discuss how measuring with your feet doesn't always work well as we all have different sizes of feet and steps. So, we chose to measure with cubes today because they are all the same size. We will also be discussing mistakes in measuring and different forms of measurement (weight, temperature) this week.

My Snowman

To wrap up our Winter unit last week, we put together some very cute snow boys and girls. You might recognize them!

We started with some blank, very boring, backgrounds. When asked, the children came up with the idea of painting to make them more exciting. The children could add any details they wanted to their snow person. Some chose hats, arms, noses, buttons, and whatever else they thought would look nice. For their pictures, I printed a large version of their first day of school pic. It was fun to see how much they have already changed. 

This week, we will be diving into our Arctic unit as well as discussing nouns and measurement. Have a wonderful week! 

Puffy Paint Snowmen

We have talked a lot about 'reactions' with science experiments this year. Today, we predicted and discovered the reaction between white glue and shaving cream; puffy paint! We talked about self control when creating art in that if we cover our whole paper we lose the picture we wanted to share. The snowmen look great with a lot of little details making them more interesting.

Happy Holidays

We had a great day of giving and projects today. We got our tickets and bells ready and watched the Polar Express. We talked about giving and were very appreciative during our gift exchange. I love the excitement!

I also included the performance from the kindergarten group last night. The entire school's performances are also listed on the same YouTube page. (Click Here)

We hope everyone has a wonderful break and a happy New Year!

Gift Exchange

Concert Performance

The Day after a Tragedy

As parents, we know how we want to discuss and meet the needs of our own children at home after a tragedy. However, we are not with our children every hour of every day and we need to prepare them for all they will encounter. As I considered this, I realized that families may have a lot of questions about how their child's teacher will handle such a tragic event in school. Here is my response to families and how I will care for their children this week.

Hello families,

I have spent the weekend wondering how our day will start Monday morning. As I do that, I realize that families may wonder how such a horrible topic may be handled in the classroom. I wanted to completely shield my own children (Annabel and Gus) from this topic, but I realize that this is unrealistic. So, I spent some time this morning preparing them for what they might hear at school. Now I need to think about your children and my role in their lives. 

My plan when a tragic event occurs and is highly publicized is to play off the feelings of my kids. If they enter the room discussing the topic, that means there is no chance of being able to shield them from something that is inappropriate for their age. Thus, ignoring the issue is not a healthy option. Also, if nothing is mentioned by the children themselves, that doesn't mean it is not on their minds. I will ask indirect, open-ended questions to find the children's level of exposure (what did you do this weekend, anything interesting happen, did you see anything on tv). I feel that my role is to find what the children need from me, wether it is to answer questions truthfully or just reassure them that they are safe at school. Intimate details of the events will not be discussed, as I don't think that will help. 

In short, I will be there tomorrow to shield your child from topics that are not appropriate for their developmental age (to the best of my ability), answer any questions I can with truth (within reason), but mostly reassure them that they are safe and protected at school by adults that care very much for them. 

If you have anything to add (such as feelings your child is having, how much they know about the events, advice for me, etc), PLEASE respond. The more information I have, the better I will be able to care for your children tomorrow. 

Thanks so much for reading, and I am looking forward to a wonderful week full of fun and learning with your children. 

Randi