Junior Explorers 8/18/2023

 We made it!

This week we did a lot of testing out of all the toys, games, and materials in the room.  We enjoyed Playdoh, silly stories, whiteboards, and even started a nursery rhyme unit!  Throughout the next few weeks Ms. Amy and I will be asking the children many questions to see what they know.  Once assessments are completed, I'll start small group instruction to work with each child at their level.  Until then, I'll be adding new aspects to the day to help build a detailed daily schedule and keep everyone organized.  Up next week: introducing technology, using name clips, daily nursery rhyme discussion, and more!

A little about me

This is my 10th year here and my 15th teaching overall.  I love what I do and love helping kids grow.  I have 3 kids of my own and my oldest is here at Branch Line.  I love being able to teach in a way that suits different learners as individuals and I am so happy to have a place for my own kids to go to school.

After being together for 3 school days, here are some little notes I've put together:

• Your child is most likely hungry.  They're used to grazing during the summer.  They can eat when they're hungry at school, but only a fruit or vegetable in the room.  Pack a few.  Whatever they don't eat they take home with them so you'll start to see a pattern.  If you can, the snack does better if it is packed apart from lunch.  Sometimes in an effort to get the snack, the main course of lunch is spilled.
• Go over what foods you would like your child to eat first during lunch.  We try to remind them, but it might help if it comes from you.  Starting with potato chips is fun, but it takes a while and before you realize it, lunch is over!
• Sign up for Remind messages.  You can use it to text me or get quick messages.  Text @3bb0a9 to the number 81010.  I use the app, so check it out! 
• I tried to go through bags this week to get out any supplies that were thrown in there.  Anything like personal notebooks or pencil boxes I don't plan on taking.  Markers, glue, and other similar items are put in my supply closet and I use them to replenish the classroom supplies.

At the end of every weekly post, I try to add some pictures of us in the room. I know seeing the children in action is fun and helpful in reflecting on the week.  So check out the pictures that were snapped this week.  Come back next week for more!