Classrooms: Ginkgos
A letter from Michelle
Dear Ginkgo Families,
As we head into spring, I finally feel like I am getting my sea legs back, and that my life is starting to find a rhythm again. As all of you have experienced when bringing home a new member of the family, it takes awhile to find your routines again. With that said I am going to rededicate myself to more consistent communications from the classroom! So here is a little peek at what we have been up to in the classroom. During the month of February, our group discussions have related to children's dental health month and heart health month. We learned about the parts of the tooth as well as the types and functions of the various teeth, and how different types of animals have unique teeth that are suited to their way of life. We are looking forward to a local dentist, Dr. Sperling from Northwest Dental Group, to come in for a visit. Unfortunately it did not work out for him to come in during February, but dental health is important all the time, and we will welcome him into the classroom just as soon as he can fit us into his schedule.
The kindergarten children have been delving deeper into the study of the five vertebrate classes (mammals, birds, fish, reptiles and amphibians) through independent research projects. In the weeks to come they will continue this area of study with their Elementary 1 buddies. Together they will create collages' and posters that describe the characteristics of each class of animals.
This spring the kindergarten children will also begin working with a work plan in the classroom as they continue their preparation for elementary. The work plan is designed to help the children learn to manage their time, to meet a deadline, and to ensure that they are well rounded in their work week. The children are expected to complete a follow up work (extension or practice of a presentation that has been given) in the areas of math, science, geography and language. We also will continue working with the phonetic readers and penmanship practice.
As we progress into spring we will begin discussing plant and animal life cycles, begin planting projects, and get OUTDOORS! Yay! We are all anxious to shed the winter gear and get into the mud! One special project that we will be doing is studying the life cycle of the chicken by incubating and hatching eggs. The chicks will stay with us a few days before we send them off to the farm.
Also spring is a perfect time to set aside some time to come in to observe the classroom. You are always welcomem, and the office can help you find a time that works with your schedule. I encourage all of you to come in. It is a very enjoyable experience!
Well, that is the nutshell update. Please let me know if you have any questions, concerns, or just want to discuss Montessori, parenting, or children in genera. My door and email are always open!
Meet the Children's House Guides:
Ginkgos
