Our week began with the legend of the groundhog. There were stuffed and plush and ceramic groundhog figures, along with pictures of burrows to help us learn the characteristics and living habits of these animals. Books about groundhogs were in our library to tie in literacy. The book "Go To Sleep Groundhog" which was read was a big hit. Of course a little science was brought in to the lesson as we learned about shadows. On the blog you will find photos of friends tracing (eye-hand coordination) and cutting (fine motor development) groundhogs. Other children are coloring the ground (dirt and grass) on a paper plate to make a burrow. The class was able to make the groundhog puppet come in and out of its home. Would the animal see its shadow and go back to sleep? Or would the shadow not be seen, therefore influencing the groundhog to remain outdoors bringing an early spring? It is, as noted, just a legend but we discussed the results featured in the news (a little current events). Some friends are here showing their finished creations. Ada actually drew her own groundhog and is displaying her picture. The puppets are in your homes and can be used for dramatic play.
The other big topic this week was the upcoming celebration of the Chinese New Year. We try to instill respect for the ways of different cultures. Again with the aid of books, charts and pictures, the group was presented with some interesting facts such as how each year a different animal is the holiday focus. This time it is the year of the ox. They loved learning that the Chinese people invented fireworks and noodles, that red is a good luck color, dragons are generally part of parades and other information exciting to our age children. You can view us creating fireworks art on the blog. First with the use of wax paint sticks, fireworks were drawn. A red wash was painted over these drawings. The bulletin board featuring our efforts is beautiful. Each child was given a red envelope with a coin in it for good luck. If you have not seen it, check your child's bag or backpack.
Margot presented the letter box for "Q". She is holding the beautiful question mark she colored so carefully and a copy of a quail. This letter was not easy. We thank her parents for their successful work. Ruby is shown here writing the weekly letter in her new alphabet book and doing a nice job! Brigitte is drawing a quail at the easel, a bird we learned about at our circle presentation by Margot.
Finally, but most important, are the snapshots of Mira's fifth birthday. Mira was dressed like a princess in a sparkly long dress that she said her Grandma from Russia had sent her as a birthday gift. Once again the Whole Notes gobbled up the cupcakes while having a lot of social interaction. Happy Birthday to Mira.
Please remember to send in your thirteen valentines any day this week. We will celebrate our love for family and friends on Friday, the twelfth. If your child will not be here, please let us know.
Rolene and Jackie
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