We hope that you had a wonderful week! We are thrilled to share that our students had a fantastic time exploring the topic of using water and water conservation this past week. The children engaged in hands-on activities and discussions to help them understand why water is so important for our health and the environment. They learned about where our water comes from, how living creatures depend on it, the importance of keeping it clean, and simple ways we can all help conserve this precious resource. We saw important thinking skills at work as they shared what they already knew about water, discussed ways to save water at home, and admired the magical powers of rain, as we learned about where it comes from and how it affects our world. Witnessing their growing understanding and joy for this important topic was truly inspiring.

As we wrap up our exploration of water this coming week, we will focus on the different bodies of water found worldwide. We will introduce names like oceans, lakes, rivers, and ponds, and begin to learn how to identify these geographical features on maps. This will be a wonderful opportunity to expand their understanding of the world around them and introduce basic map skills in an age-appropriate and engaging way. 

Looking ahead, we are excited to announce the start of our brand new unit on Monday, April 28th: Exercise!

During this unit, we will be diving into the wonderful world of movement and exploring how exercise benefits our bodies in so many ways. The children will learn about different types of physical activity, from running and jumping to stretching and movement games. We will discuss how exercise helps us grow strong muscles and bones, keeps our hearts healthy, and gives us energy to play and learn.

Beyond the physical benefits, we will also emphasize the positive impact of exercise on our emotional and mental well-being. We will discuss how moving our bodies can help us feel happier, less stressed, and more focused. Through games, songs, and active play, we aim to foster a positive attitude towards exercise and encourage a lifelong love of movement. Here are a few things you can look forward to during our Exercise unit:

• Exploring different types of exercise: We will try various activities that get our bodies moving, both indoors and (weather permitting) outdoors.
• Learning about our bodies: We will discuss how our muscles, bones, and heart work during exercise.
• Understanding the connection between exercise and emotions: We will talk about how physical activity can make us feel good inside and out.
• Developing gross motor skills: Activities will focus on improving coordination, balance, and strength.
• Encouraging teamwork and cooperation: Many exercise activities involve working together.

We are also looking for material donations and would LOVE it if you could let us borrow your child’s favorite exercise tool or toy. This could be a hula hoop, a yoga mat, a child-sized treadmill, or any other equipment a child could use at school and teach other children how to use. We will return this item at the end of our unit. 

We also encourage you to talk to your child at home about what they learn in the classroom. You can also support our Exercise unit by engaging in physical activities together as a family. Whether it’s a walk in the park, a dance party in your living room, or playing tag in the backyard, every little bit helps!

Finally, a request: As we continue to nurture your child’s growth and prepare them for a successful transition to kindergarten, we kindly request your cooperation in a new routine. To help the children become more prepared for kindergarten, we will now ask them to form a line along the wall just before entering the classroom in the morning. This simple practice will aid in developing their self-regulation, patience, and understanding of kindergarten classroom expectations. Thank you for your support in this important step!

We are looking forward to another exciting and enriching few weeks with your wonderful children. As always, please do not hesitate to contact us if you have any questions or concerns.

Have a relaxing weekend,

Annie