Our mornings are so much fun as we are able to venture into the forest, ride bikes, and play in the entire yard with 1 or 2 other kindergarten classes. We start our mornings with half of our class outside while the other half goes inside for a literacy or numeracy lesson, followed by basket manipulatives to reinforce learning. At around 9h35 the classes flip (the class that started outside goes inside and vice versa). We do this for many reasons, but mainly to ensure that we are able to make more one-to-one connections with your child. By reducing the class size for the morning block, it allows for a quieter environment and a way to allow children to explore in a more meaningful fashion. Children who are a little more introverted have the opportunity to express their opinions, build self-confidence, have more safe to move around during active carpet activities, and activities that require more teacher attention can also be performed. Both groups are receiving the same lessons but on different days. We are finding this year that having the children outside more often during the day, allows for greater creativity and more inquiry regarding their natural environment. We always have great questions being asked and explored. We truly are having an awesome year! This block ends with 15 minutes of outdoor recess.
Following the first nutrition break is Discovery Learning. This is a large block of time where the children are free to choose any activity. Quite often both teachers will present a new skill that the children may wish to try (e.g. gimp, painting techniques, finger knitting, news things to discover on the science table, sewing, etc...). After we have cleaned up, we end this block with carpet time and then head off for our second nutrition break.
The last block usually starts with one of the planning time teachers (Mme Burkhart, Mme Thatcher, or Mme Clews) who teach gym, character education, health, art, or library. Next the children have 15 minutes of quiet time where they may wish to read or simply lie down (until about 14h35). Lastly, after our last circle time, where we may read a book, sing some songs, or talk about an inquiry, and read our heartprints, we get ready for the buses and if time allows we play outside.
Bonne nuit !
Reminders:
Thank you for sending in Play Dough and clean recyclables, labelling clothing, sending nutritious foods, and dressing your child in rain boots and layers of clothing to help with the changes in temperature.
October 21st - Mme Tipler away in the morning - Coaching X-Country
October 24th - Picture Day
October 25th - Half PD Day
October 31st - Halloween - Wear a costume that will be comfortable for the day.
November 4th - Pottery-to-Go