Applesauce, Peacful Moments, and Fire Safety! Oh my!!

What a busy week we've had!   We had a great time making applesauce for our open house.  Everyone peeled, cut and chopped the apples.   We loved the wonderful smell of apples cooking in the crock pot throughout the day.   What a nice treat for our visitors on Wednesday evening.

                                   
                           

During literacy time this week, we started a new routine called "word study."  During this time, we will practice foundational skills that will help us to become better readers and writers.   This week, we sorted pictures , studied the formation of the letters in our names, and read familiar books.   We now have MANY books that we've read together over and over again.   Students have learned that we often start reading using our memory.   It's so exciting to hear them retelling these familiar stories and then declaring, "I'M READING!!!" 
                                                      



We have been practicing some mindfulness in room 3.It is very important to remember that kindergarten students are not only growing academically but socially and emotionally as well.   Learning to self-regulate is a VERY important life skill.      Every day, after recess, we do a few minutes of mindful movements.  These stretches, poses, and breathing exercises are a great way for kids to calm themselves and prepare for the next part of our day.  We also have a "peaceful place" in our classroom where children can go if they are feeling upset, anxious, tired, or just need to take a quick break.   There, they will find specific tools that they have learned to use in order to calm themselves.  This week, we have learned that focusing on an object for a few minutes while we breathe can be very soothing.  We have a lovely collection of rocks that kids can use for this purpose.  You can remind your kindergartener that they know just what to do when they are feeling upset or overwhelmed at home. 
                                     
                                         

Firefighter Brad from the South Burlington Fire Department came to talk with us this week.  He taught the kids that it's important to have a "fire safety plan" that includes two ways out of any room in your home.   He also emphasized the importance of working fire detectors.  Don't be surprised if you have a mini Fire Marshall in your home this weekend!

POPCORN FRIDAY happened again this week.   You may have noticed that your child came home with his or her snack uneaten on Friday.  That's because we had our popcorn during snack time.   Typically, popcorn Friday happens once per month as a fundraiser for 5th grade Fun Day.   The cost is 50 cents per bag.   UNLESS I HEAR THAT YOU DO NOT WANT YOUR CHILD TO HAVE POPCORN, I will buy some for anyone who has forgotten their quarters.  We can't have any sad faces on Popcorn Friday!

UPCOMING EVENTS

Saturday, October 14 Chamberlin Harvest Festival 1:00-3:00

Thursday & Friday, October 19-20 - No School

Thursday, November 2 - Picture Retake Day

Friday, November 10 - Early Dismissal, bagged lunch available