January
January went by fast!
During circle time we talked about Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and his work for peace, justice and equity. We had some thoughtful discussions about fairness. We practiced using our voice and our power to express, “No! Stop! That’s not fair!” We worked on several projects and activities as a community, made Peace Birds, and played games about helping our neighbors.
We also enjoyed learning about, Alaska and the story of Balto, the sled dog. I am guessing your kids can sing you the Balto song, like BINGO, but BALTO. “There was a sled that had a dog, and Balto was his name-o!” The students loved acting out the story after they memorized the book. We also learned about Polar animals, and enjoyed playing in sensory bins with with ice and arctic animals.
Themes this Month
- Friendship and Valentine’s Day
- Where do you live? What are your parents’ names?
- Portland and Oregon
- Lunar New Year
- Black History Month
Valentine’s Day
We will celebrate Valentine’s Day on February 14th, and a little bit each day of the week to make sure most everyone gets in on the fun.
You do not need to address cards to individual children, but make sure each card is signed from your child.
Example, “To my friend, Love Holly” or “From, Junot”
We have 32 kids in the morning class, and 11 in the afternoon. Everyone will have plenty of love in their Valentine box so please make as many cards you feel comfortable making. Please bring in your child’s cards no later than Feb. 11th, the earlier the better! The students will have lots of work to do delivering all their cards to their friend’s mailboxes.
Cards can be store-bought or homemade, and include treats & toys. Children will be encouraged to save any treats for after school, and ask parents first.
Art & Circle Time
Our students participate in art and circle time every day! Sometimes we work on art projects for a long time, like creating our Valentine boxes, holiday gifts and writing letters. Other days we do a craft, or a painting, and sometimes we experiment with colors! Last month we also used mirrors to help make our self-portraits.
During circle time we have group activities and discussions. We practice taking turns and listening to our peers, and playing cooperative games and games that build on our literacy and math skills. Our class has been enjoying The letter Box, and engaging in story time.
Special Guests
Last month, we enjoyed special guests, music with Teacher Brittany and music with Music Quest ! We love having special guests visit our school each week. We look forward to seeing Teacher Brittany and our reading buddies once a month as well as a variety of other guests!
February
Tuesday, Feb. 4-Music with Teacher Brittany
Wednesday, February 12th- Music with Ben
Friday, 14th – Valentine’s Day –Each class will celebrate a little bit each day so nobody misses out!
Monday, Feb. 17 – NO SCHOOL – Presidents’ Day
Date TBD, Special Guests, Portland Forest School Middle Schoolers read to preschoolers.
Play Time
We have lots of time to play each day, both inside the classroom and outside on the playground. Playing with peers helps to build relationships with classmates and learn new skills! Plus it makes learning fun!
See you soon!