Newsletter Week of May 28^th- April 2^nd

            Our theme this week centered on domestic animals. We began by discussing the difference between domestic animals and wild animals. We also introduced another vocabulary word, “mammal”. We talked about the different types of domestic animals that we live with and those that are found on farms. We shared stories about our pets, and discussed the fact that animals have needs and feelings much like we do. This led into further brainstorming of what we do to care for our pets, and how different types of animals have different needs.

            During circle time in addition to our discussions, we sang “The Farmer in the Dell” and “5 Little Ducks.”  We read Little Pig, Biddle Pig, Animals Born Alive and Well, Eyewitness- Pets, The Farmer’s Sneeze, and more. We have continued to practice our ASL alphabet, and Melanie has just taught us the months of the year song. We have also begun counting in Spanish, and as a group we can count all the way to twenty!

            At the art table this week we had some really fun activities! Many of the kids took some time to finish up their paper mache bees from last week, gluing on eyes, wings, legs, and pipe cleaner stingers bzzzzz. We also did a large collaborative picture, working together, sharing materials, and space, I was impressed with the level of cooperation. Using construction paper, crayons, and colored pencils, the class drew animals that they thought could be found on a farm. They drew cows, horses, flying chickens, pigs, and ducks. The picture looks great in our stairwell! Later in the week, after reading If you Take a Mouse to School…  the kids drew their own pictures of what would happen if we took a mouse to school. They all came up with the most creative mouse stories! Nate drew a picture of he and the mouse skateboarding at school on his new skateboard! On Friday we pulled out the creation box. The class had a fabulous time using colorful masking tape, glue, and a variety of recycled items to make their own creations. Another fun activity that was not quite art, but fun nonetheless, was mud bowls! We filled bowls with mud and plastic pigs, and the kids went to town; there was quite a bit of oinking!

            In the gym with Karen we are continuing to learn new dances, like the Macarena, the hokey pokey, and the bunny hop. Soon our class will be ready to perform for the whole school!

            Our special person of the week was Isabella, she had to leave early this week, so the kids worked super hard to create pictures to fill her person of the week book by Wednesday, and it was great! Thanks for being such a great line leader Isabella!

Friendly Reminders:

- The after school program uses our classroom promptly after 3, so we need to have the room clear, thanks so much.

- Please send in pet pictures with your child to add to our wall.