Day-Sky/Night-Sky Week is primarily a Science-based theme in
which the children identify and discuss what they see in the sky during the day
and at night. Once again, Literature is
a main component of this theme as we read a variety of fiction and non-fiction books
on the topic.
The direction and depth of
the study is driven by the children interests. This week we chatted about the
sun, moon, clouds, stars and rainbows as is typical. The children were also interested in
discussing thunder, lightning, planets and constellations.
We also talked about how and why we have day and night.
As the photos illustrate, the children enjoyed a variety of
related activities during free play.
The art table was a place of exploration and creations on a
daily basis.
"Star Sandwiches" and "Moon Cakes" were
also great fun to make and eat!
We happily welcomed two new student teachers from HVCC this
week! Sophia and Emily will be with us
through mid-May.
 |
| Sophia's placement is on Tuesday mornings. |
 |
| Emily's placement is on Wednesday mornings. |
Thank you to MacKenzie's grandma who came in as our Guest Reader this week!
Divertido con Espanol / Fun with Spanish
Senora
Jen spent time playing with the children as she reinforced our Vocabalo de
Semana en Espanol!
Vocabalo de Semana en Espanol / Words of the Week
in Spanish
Luna /
Moon
Sol / Sun
Estrellas
/ Stars
Arcoiris
/ Rainbow
Looking Deeper: Exploration and
Learning through Play
This week I will explore the importance
of focusing teaching and learning on the "whole child"!
Day Sky/Night Sky is always a high interest theme
for the children. Perhaps this is because they are fascinated by the
things in the sky that they see each day and night but never really
touch. These things though common are indeed other worldly and
therefore hold a fascination! The sun, stars and beloved rainbow are
truly magical!
Inevitably during the week, the children talk about
their fears surrounding "thunder and lightning"! We spend
important time talking about these fears that are so common and
universal. I share that I too once feared "thunder and
lightning" when I was a child. We talk about common sense safety rules,
such as always be sure that you and your grown-up go inside at the first
sighting of lightning! We also talk a bit about what causes thunder
and lightning, and that while thunder sounds really scary, it cannot hurt you.
Discussing, honoring, and demystifying fears are a very important part of
learning for young children. That is why teaching and learning must
go beyond mere cognition and focus on the "whole
child" These conversations are crucial to children's holistic
growth and development!
Have a fun and restful weekend!
