Owl Moon, Bean Bags and Spanish

We have discussed special relationships between children and adults and shared about meaningful experiences. Everyone has drawn a picture in their journals about a favorite memory. We have also made a variety of moon shapes to paste in our journals and hang up around the classroom. The different phases of the moon have been labeled as well. Lots of conversations about self-control, bravery, and patience have been inspired by our book study of Owl Moon. It takes a great deal of these important character traits to be out in the woods watching and waiting to see owls.
This week we will be going more in depth to learn about wooded habitats, trees, shadows, owls, daylight and darkness, and the lives of naturalists.

Lavender bean bags have been enthusiastically started. First, all the children were given the opportunity to scoop, pour, and feel bowls full of flaxseeds and lavender. They experienced a wonderful sense of these materials. Then they each received their own square sewn together on three sides and were shown how to turn them right side out and poke the corners out with a thin wooden dowel. The filling began! This occupied everyone's attention for a good 30 minutes and the bean bags will be finished this week. They have many fun and creative uses. The bean bags are to be handled with care and may be used in quiet play as a pillow for a small animal or doll, a load to be carried by a truck, or a soft companion for sleep. Lavender is a wonderful and relaxing scent that is very soothing.

This Monday morning we will be starting a 30 minute Spanish enrichment class with stories, songs, counting, games, and simple phrases. Our present focus will be on introductions and counting.
We will be using a unique language program that introduces children to the excitement of the Spanish language and makes them feel that learning another language and understanding a different culture are enriching and fun experiences.
Our activities will include:

1) A complete language course designed for early childhood
2) A wide range of learning
3) Age appropriate games
4) Spanish language songs
5) Information about the Spanish speaking world
6) Activity books
7) One on one time with fluent speakers and teachers

Monday Spanish class starts at 9 a.m.

We have exciting plans coming up for Spring and Summer this year. Miss Casey will be spending more time here at Apple Blossom during the week and has many great ideas she is looking forward to implementing with all the children including more music, art projects, gardening, science and nature explorations! Your child will not want to miss it!