What an incredibly engaging and busy week we’ve had!

This Week: Exploring Different Balls

Our first investigation into exploring the different types of balls was a huge success. The children were completely engrossed in becoming “ball scientists.” We observed, touched, and tested:

• Size and Texture: We compared a large basketball to a tiny plastic ball, and we also put several different balls in order from smallest to largest. We explored the fuzzy texture of tennis balls versus the smooth surface of wooden balls. 
• What’s Inside: We’ve explored what’s inside a tennis ball – children were really surprised!
• Bouncing Power: The children hypothesized (and then tested!) which balls would bounce the highest. They learned that balls with more air or a certain material bounced higher than solid or heavier ones.
• Purpose: We talked about which balls are used for which purpose — a soccer ball for kicking, a breathing ball for helping us relax, etc.

These hands-on activities are building important skills in observation, comparison, and prediction!

Next Week’s Investigation: Rolling and Measuring

Next week, we’ll move into the second phase of our ball investigation: how balls roll and how far they go. We’ll set up ramps and tracks to conduct experiments, focusing on:

• Rolling Distance: We will test how far different balls travel after rolling down the same ramp.
• Data Collection: We will work together to create a chart to record and compare the distances. This introduces early math concepts like measurement and data analysis in a fun, tangible way!

Important Dates & Action Items

Please make a note of these critical items for the short week ahead:

• Read-A-Thon Celebration: Since we officially made our goal, we will celebrate with fun activities on Monday, 10/6, between 8:25 and 8:55. 
• Parent-Teacher Conferences: Conferences are scheduled for Tuesday (10/7) and Wednesday (10/8). Please be prompt for your session. We have allocated 15 minutes per student to ensure we can meet with every family. We look forward to sharing your child’s progress and goals with you.
• Short Week Reminder: School is closed for Fall Break on Friday, October 10th, and Monday, October 13th. Enjoy the long weekend! 

Cooler Weather Transition

The cooler temperatures are just around the corner, so please help us prepare your child for independent dressing:

• Label Everything! Please take a moment to label all of your child’s outer clothing (jackets, sweaters, mittens, etc.) with their name. This is the only way we can ensure lost items make it back to the right cubby.
• Practice Zipping: A small amount of practice at home goes a long way! Please help your child practice putting their jacket or sweater on and zipping it independently. We encourage this self-help skill at school, and your support at home is vital for building their confidence.

As always, thank you for all your support. 

Have a wonderful weekend,

The Preschool Team