What a sweet start to the 2023-2024 school year! In this class of 14, 7 are new to preschool and 7 are returning from last year. We had 4 volunteers and Pastor Shana come visit. We saw reminders of the beauty of a multi-age classroom in the play that emerged between the oldest and youngest. We came upon an interaction between two children who didn’t previously know each other…”I think she thinks I’m a big brother so I’m helping her!”
Every corner of the classroom was explored: the easel, the puppet stage, the instrument corner, the block rug, the doll house, the project shelf and the nature corner. The library was hopping most of the morning and briefly turned into a bank run by a very wealthy king. The cloud dough was well attended the whole morning as well. Our returning children did an incredible job of showing up as peer models-demonstrating play and cooperation.
Should you eat the apple you brought home today?
No! It’s made out of paper! But it does look quite realistic!
We intentionally start the year with lots of room for self direction. Today children did their alphabet project when and where they wanted anytime before Circle Time. I love seeing the hands shake with exertion as they squeeze the glue out. Look at all those apple a shapes!
After Snack Time we had play time with optional song games singing Apples and Bananas and the Vowel Song (to the tune of BINGO). I used our sign language blocks as visual and tangible cues for our vowels. This turned very silly as the children took turns rearranging the blocks which meant me having to sing them in new orders! So tricky for me!
Did you wear headphones today?
Maybe! I purchased a class pack of headphones as an option for all children. They hang in cubbies and can be worn anytime. While they don’t cancel all noise, they do provide a fantastic muffled experience.
Why did someone get a rainbow candle?
It was their Birthday Celebration Day! Snack Time today was honoring a September birthday friend! This year children will get a battery candle that when turned on, transitions through the rainbow colors. We had applesauce just like we found in our book and yummy birthday treats!
note: no children were invited to smile during these photos. hahahahaha
I demonstrated the teacher stool (a low rolling stool that is in the center of the tables) and Grandpa Kelven was the Snack Store. Children had the option to carry their trays to the kitchen where Grandpa Norm and Grandma Vicki were waiting.
Can you take your shoes off at preschool?
YES!
A landmark of children’s time here is the freedom to take their shoes and socks off and on as they like. It was a question from one friend within moments of arriving. Shoes and socks coming off is a simple and significant opportunity for children to practice noticing their bodies and practicing their own agency. At this age it also presents the opportunity to connect with someone because most often there is assistance needed. Look at all these shoeless feet!
Where did you stand to line up?
On the rainbow tape AKA the rainbow snake!
At the end of the day, we lined up (what a feat!) and walked through the rain to get to the pavilion while we waited for our grown ups. The only tears were a brief lament that the day was over. I am so grateful that this is my work.
newcreationpreschool.com 