What a busy month!
October came and went rapidly. We had the opportunity during this month to learn about the changes in season and all the beauty that Fall brings into the air. We introduced South America in our geography studies with a focus on the country of Colombia, as it is a very special country to the Mi Casita teachers.
We also discussed various cultural studies, such as our artist of the month Pablo Picasso; studied the life cycle of a pumpkin; created fall art activities, as well as different objects that sink and float; and learned about South American animals that live in land, air, or water. In addition, we are excited to start our weekly science experiments, where the children participate by learning, observing, and making the experiment in the class. We also started our reading training for some of the children.
We are approaching one of the best times of the year: Thanksgiving festivities and the Holiday season, which brings both family togetherness and moments of joy! We feel settled in the classroom and the children are all happy to enter in the morning; they seem enthusiastic, relaxed, and comfortable in the class. They are eager to learn new lessons, excited to share, and happy to connect more and more with their peers!
We are grateful to have a few involved parents during this month. The volunteer opportunities have been a great help to us and a good experience for the children as well. Thanks to the families who have done library runs and participated in reading help, science experiments, and cultural presentations. We are looking for a classroom parent this year to take on the role and support/volunteer in various activities throughout the year. If you would like to take on this role, please feel free to reach out to us via Bloomz and we can share in detail about the role of the classroom parent!
It was such a treat to meet with all of you for conferences this month. It was wonderful to get to know a little more about each family and to share all the joys that your children bring to us every day. We are privileged to be among a wonderful community of families this year and feel so lucky to spend time with your children!
We also want to share that Spanish is spoken more frequently in the classroom now and the children are being introduced to several phrases and words. Throughout the day, we often speak in Spanish by using the first list of words we sent via email. We implement Spanish in our circles, transitions, commands, games, math counting lessons, and vocabulary from the language avenue, as well as everyday greetings. Spanish classes are held twice a week and we keep them fun and entertaining. So far, we have worked on days of the week, calendar, colors, body parts, animals, and greetings.
As a friendly reminder, please place the following (labeled) gear in the child’s cubby for the winter: mittens, snow pants, jackets, hats, and waterproof boots. Please try to find mittens or gloves that are waterproof and have a zipper all the way down; this will help your child to independently get dressed.
One of our favorite Montessori quotes:
Free the child’s potential, and you will transform him into the world.
Thank you for trusting the education of your children to us in Mi Casita.