Leprechaun week is here, and it’s one of my absolute favorite weeks of the year! After spending almost an entire year cleaning up behind our little explorers and reminding them to tidy up, there’s something incredibly satisfying about creating a mess that they’re genuinely excited to clean up.
We kicked off our Leprechaun week just like any other, with tables set up for inquiry and exploration. The sensory table was a treasure trove filled with shamrocks and golden coins, inviting the children to dig in and discover. The literacy table featured a Leprechaun-themed bump game, where students matched alphabet letters to corresponding pictures, enhancing their letter recognition skills in a fun and playful way.
At the math table, we had a simple yet engaging game of Leprechaun bump set up. This game not only reinforced basic math skills but also added a touch of magic and whimsy to our learning environment.
We started off our week with some exploration into the letter L for leprechaun. We also kicked off our day with the Heggerty Phonics program, which is always a hit with our little learners. I love how quick, easy, and engaging it is, with no prep required!
We got creative with playdough, shaping the letter L and getting our hands busy with sensory learning.
It was time for our weekly directed drawing, and this week, it was all about leprechauns! The children showed incredible independence and perseverance as they tackled this tricky drawing, and the results were beautiful.
We then enjoyed a fun read-aloud of “3 Ways to Trap a Leprechaun” and had a lively class discussion about whether leprechauns would visit our classroom and play tricks on us. We also worked on our weekly letter craft, creating a lamp for the letter L. The children did an amazing job with some tricky cutting, showing off their fine motor skills.
The excitement reached a peak as our classroom had two surprise visitors overnight – little leprechauns! They left a mess of green footprints and empty toy bins, sparking excitement and laughter as we cleaned up. We read “How to Catch a Leprechaun” and then set to work designing our very own leprechaun traps using recycled materials. We headed outside for a fun playground circuit, and the day ended with creative building tasks and Forest Friday, although we swapped the forest for the playground due to tick sightings.
It was a week filled with creativity, learning, and fun, and I couldn’t be prouder of how our kindergarten stars embraced each activity with enthusiasm and curiosity. Until next time, keep shining bright!
If you are looking for more resources to use for your leprechaun week check out these resources as well!
Water Cycle Week in our kindergarten classroom was an exciting and educational experience, filled with hands-on activities and engaging lessons.
On Monday, we kicked off the week by setting up our classroom with a Water Cycle alphabet bump game, where students had fun matching letters while learning about the water cycle. The math table featured a water cycle math bump game with 10-sided dice, adding a new twist to our math practice.
Our sensory table was transformed into an aquatic adventure, complete with rocks, water, and fish, promising to be the highlight and messiest part of the week!
To tie in with our theme, we started the day by reading “Drop an Adventure through the Water,” which set the stage for our learning. We then brainstormed all the things we could think of that start with the letter “W,” incorporating literacy into our day. No letter introduction is complete without a kinesthetic learning component, so we made “W’s” out of playdough, reinforcing letter recognition and formation.
Our day continued with a directed drawing of a watermelon, a fun and creative activity that also tied into our theme.
We finished off the day with an investigation into volume using water, exploring different-sized containers and beakers to see what we could learn about capacity.
On Tuesday, we delved deeper into the water cycle by learning about clouds and how they form. After reading a book about clouds, we got creative and made cloud art with shaving cream and glue, adding an artistic element to our science lesson.
Unfortunately, I had to be off for the remainder of the week, but the learning continued with a focus on fairy tales. Students enjoyed fun read-alouds and even created their own fairy tale books at their reading level, participating in the learning with the TOC.
Overall, Water Cycle Week was a fantastic learning experience that combined science, literacy, math, and creativity in a fun and engaging way. The students had a blast while learning about the water cycle and other related topics, making memories that will last a lifetime.
Reduce Reuse Recycle Week is an exciting time in our kindergarten classroom, filled with engaging activities and meaningful discussions about caring for our planet. This week, we kicked off the festivities with great enthusiasm, exploring new tables set up just for the occasion.
Our math table featured the Landfill Rescue game, where students used addition or subtraction strategies to help keep the bear out of the landfill. It was a fantastic way to introduce the concept of reducing waste and making mindful choices.
At our sensory table, we had a special setup with a Reduce Reuse Recycle bear and various materials for sorting into the correct bins. This hands-on activity allowed students to explore the importance of sorting and recycling materials in a fun and interactive way.
For our literacy activity, we put a Reduce Reuse Recycle twist on our alphabet bump game. Instead of using regular alphabet dice, we used wooden alphabet buttons that students had to match to the correct letter on the game board. It was a creative way to reinforce letter recognition while incorporating our theme for the week.
We started each day by reading “I Choose to Reduce Reuse Recycle” by Elizabeth Estrada, setting the tone for our discussions and activities. Together, we brainstormed ideas to reduce, reuse, and recycle, adding to our list throughout the week as new ideas emerged.
As part of our language arts curriculum, we’ve been exploring the diphthong “ai” this week. To tie it into our Reduce Reuse Recycle theme, we incorporated a directed drawing activity where students had a great time drawing and adding details to their trains, showcasing their creativity and reinforcing the importance of reusing materials.
Tuesday was a highlight of Reduce Reuse Recycle Week in our kindergarten classroom as we transformed recycled materials brought from home into a fun and interactive Grocery Store. The students were actively involved in setting it up, and their creativity and excitement were palpable.
Throughout the week, the Grocery Store became a focal point of our learning environment, providing endless opportunities for imaginative play and exploration. From stocking shelves to playing cashier, the students thoroughly enjoyed every aspect of this hands-on experience.
As Friday approached, it was almost bittersweet to see the end of our Grocery Store adventure. However, the memories and lessons learned about the value of reusing materials will stay with us for a long time to come.
Wednesday was a heartwarming day in our kindergarten as we took a break from our Reduce Reuse Recycle week to celebrate Pink Shirt Day, a day dedicated to kindness and inclusivity. It was a day filled with meaningful activities and reflections that left a lasting impact on all of us.
We began our day with a special read-aloud of “Kindness is Cooler Ms Ruler,” a delightful story that reinforced the importance of kindness in our daily lives. Inspired by the book, we discussed how we could collect 100 acts of kindness, just like the characters did, for a special celebration when we reach our goal. The enthusiasm and eagerness of the children to participate in this kindness project were truly heartwarming.
In preparation for our kindness project, we talked about starting to collect Kindness show & tell items, which would highlight the kind acts they did at home to help out. This initiative not only encouraged kindness but also strengthened the bond between home and school.
To further reinforce our understanding of numbers, we played the kindness math tower & tumble game, which not only celebrated acts of kindness but also helped us practice subitizing numbers in a fun and engaging way.
On Thursday of Reduce Reuse Recycle Week, we revisited our lists of ways to be kind to our planet Earth. We had a meaningful discussion about the importance of reducing, reusing, and recycling in our classroom and homes.
To reinforce these concepts, we engaged in a creative activity where students drew pictures of as many ways as they could think of to Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle. Afterwards, we did some balloon stamping to create an Earth in the center of our page, symbolizing our commitment to caring for our planet.
It was a wonderful opportunity to encourage creativity and reinforce the importance of sustainability in a fun and interactive way. The students were engaged and enthusiastic, showcasing their understanding of how small actions can make a big difference.
Friday was the highlight of Reduce Reuse Recycle Week in our kindergarten classroom as we embarked on a creative adventure to create recycled sculptures. Using all the materials that had been brought in for the grocery store, students brainstormed, designed, and constructed unique sculptures that showcased their creativity and environmental awareness.
It was fascinating to see the diverse ideas and designs that emerged from this activity. From robots to animals to abstract structures, each sculpture was a testament to the students’ imagination and ingenuity.
This activity not only allowed students to express their creativity but also reinforced the importance of reusing materials and thinking sustainably. It was a wonderful way to wrap up our week of learning about Reduce Reuse Recycle and to celebrate our commitment to caring for the planet.
Reduce Reuse Recycle Week in our kindergarten classroom was a resounding success, filled with engaging activities and meaningful lessons about caring for our planet. From playing the Landfill Rescue game to setting up a Grocery Store out of recycled materials, students were actively involved in learning about sustainability and making environmentally conscious choices. Through creative projects like drawing pictures of ways to Reduce Reuse Recycle and creating recycled sculptures, students not only learned about the importance of reducing waste but also developed a deeper appreciation for the world around them. It was a week filled with fun, learning, and a shared commitment to making a positive impact on our planet.
Welcome to a recap of our heartwarming and engaging F for Family Week in kindergarten! This week was filled with exciting activities that celebrated the importance of family, friendship, and creativity in our lives.
As a kindergarten teacher, I take great care in setting up our classroom each week, filled with wonderful ideas and intentions for our learning adventures. However, one of the beautiful aspects of teaching young minds is that their learning often takes on a life of its own, sometimes looking very different from what I had originally planned in my head. And you know what? That’s perfectly okay – in fact, it’s often where the magic happens.
Each week, I carefully plan out our activities, envisioning engaged students eagerly participating in structured lessons and projects. But as any experienced teacher knows, flexibility is key when working with young learners. Their curiosity, creativity, and unique perspectives often lead us down unexpected paths, and it’s in these moments that true learning flourishes.
Monday: Focused on F
We started the week by diving into the letter F! We brainstormed words that start with F and practiced forming uppercase and lowercase F’s out of playdough. This set the stage for a week of learning and fun centered around the letter F.
As always we continued on with our directed drawing of the week. F is for fox. It is so remarkable how their individuality shines in these activities. We had baby foxes and purple foxes and everything in between!
Tuesday: Special Guest Teacher and “There Was an Old Lady who Swallowed a Rose”
Tuesday was extra special as we welcomed a wonderful guest teacher to our classroom. We enjoyed reading “There Was an Old Lady who Swallowed a Rose” and engaged in fun craft activities inspired by the book. It was a day filled with laughter, learning, and creativity.
Wednesday: Valentine’s Day Celebration
Valentine’s Day fell on Wednesday, and we celebrated with a focus on kindness and friendship. We exchanged cards and gifts with our friends, spreading love and joy throughout the classroom. The afternoon was filled with excitement as we opened our cards and gifts, expressing gratitude for the thoughtfulness of our friends.
Thursday: Celebrating Our Families
Thursday was all about celebrating our families. We had special tables set up with activities that honored the unique characteristics of each family. In our sensory tub, we explored sensory dough and family character figures. We also read “My Family Your Family” and took the time to compare, contrast, and celebrate the diversity of our families.
At the story workshop table, we had the opportunity to share stories about our families using the family character figures. We also took time to create beautiful family portraits, capturing the love and connection we feel for our families.
Friday: Wrapping Up with F for Fox Crafts
To conclude our F for Family Week, we engaged in a fun and creative craft activity. We made F for fox letter crafts, adding our own unique touches to our foxes. It was a fantastic way to end a week filled with learning, creativity, and appreciation for our families.
In conclusion, F for Family Week was a heartwarming and enriching experience for all of us. It reinforced the importance of family, celebrated friendship, and fostered a sense of community in our classroom. We look forward to more adventures and learning experiences in the weeks to come!
Check out some of my additional Valentines Resources on my Tpt store.
Introduction: As we stepped into another enchanting week of exploration in our kindergarten classroom, the air was filled with love, laughter, and the sweet anticipation of Valentine’s Day. Our thematic tables were adorned with vibrant hues of red and pink, setting the stage for a love-filled journey through the letter “V” for Valentine.
Math Mania: This week, our little learners delved into the world of numbers and strategic thinking with not one, but two captivating math tables. The first table featured the excitement of Valentine Bump, where the roll of a 10-sided dice added an extra twist to this classic game. Laughter echoed as students bumped their way through math problems, embracing the joy of learning through play.
At the second math table, the “Keep the Hearts” game stole the spotlight. Bears in hand, our young mathematicians navigated through addition and subtraction challenges, strategically plotting their moves to avoid reaching the end of the game board. Learning math has never been this heartwarming!
Alphabet Adventures: The alphabet matching table became a haven for letter exploration. With Valentine Bump taking a twist, the addition of alphabet stones added a tactile element to the learning journey. Students eagerly matched letters, reinforcing their understanding of the alphabet while immersed in the Valentine’s Day theme.
Sensory Sensation: Our sensory table turned into a magical realm of exploration with dyed quinoa, stones, and the adorable presence of Valentine bears. The tactile experience of quinoa combined with the visual delight of stones and bears created an immersive sensory adventure. Little hands sifted through the quinoa, discovering the hidden treasures within, and each bear became a companion in their journey of sensory exploration.
Tuesday: Building Number Sense
We kicked off our Valentine’s Week by honing our number sense skills with an engaging game. In “Build 5 Blocks,” students had to build a tower of five blocks, hide it behind their back, break it, and show one half to their partner. The challenge? Their partner had to figure out how many blocks were hiding behind their back. It was a fun and interactive way to reinforce counting and understanding of basic mathematical concepts.
Wednesday: Open-Ended Play Projects
On Wednesday, we delved into the world of open-ended play projects, igniting creativity and problem-solving skills. Among the materials provided, the solo cups emerged as the unexpected stars of the day. Initially unsure of what to do with them, students soon discovered the thrill of building towers. Tower building challenges became the highlight of the day, with students showcasing impressive teamwork and strategic planning to construct taller and stronger towers.
Thursday: Crafting and Storytime
Thursday brought a special treat as we welcomed a guest teacher for crafting activities inspired by the story “Happy Valentine’s Day, Mouse.” The classroom buzzed with excitement as students expressed their creativity through various crafts, perfectly complementing the heartwarming tale. While we enjoyed our special crafting session, we eagerly anticipated the return of our regular teacher for the afternoon, bringing back the comforting routine of our Thursday activities.
Friday: V for Vase Craft and Dance Performance
As the week drew to a close, we embraced the spirit of Valentine’s Day with a delightful V for vase craft activity. Armed with colorful materials, students let their imaginations run wild as they created beautiful vases adorned with hearts and love-themed decorations. But the excitement didn’t end there – we had been diligently practicing our dance skills throughout the week, and it was time to showcase our talents in a special school performance. With enthusiasm and joy, we danced our hearts out, spreading love and happiness to all who watched.
In conclusion, our V for Valentine’s Week was filled with unforgettable experiences, from strengthening our academic skills to fostering creativity and teamwork. As we bid farewell to this special week, we carry with us the memories of laughter, friendship, and the joy of learning together. Here’s to many more adventures in the days to come!
Introduction: Welcome to Groundhog Week in our kindergarten classroom! This week is all about engaging our little learners in exciting activities centered around the theme of groundhogs. With a combination of Reggio-inspired practices and teacher-friendly setups, I’ve created a stimulating environment to foster exploration and learning.
Setting the Scene: To kick off the week, our classroom was transformed into a haven for exploration. Each table was thoughtfully designed around a specific theme, blending Reggio practices with quick and easy setups perfect for our busy teachers.
Literacy Table: Our week commenced with an exciting setup – Groundhog Bump with a twist! We replaced the regular dice with our triangular alphabet letters, adding an extra layer of excitement and focusing on letter recognition. The little ones reveled in the challenge of matching letters while playing this familiar game..
Sensory Exploration: Our sensory bin became a hub of excitement with a bed of grain and adorable printable groundhogs. When materials were scarce, laminated graphics were a quick fix, instantly transforming the bin into a captivating sensory experience. The tactile exploration of grain and the adorable groundhog cutouts engaged our students in sensory-rich learning.
Math Adventures: The math table became a hub for Groundhog Bump games, featuring a switch from regular dice to 10-sided dice for added mathematical fun. Alongside traditional math spinners, we introduced an innovative “Escape the Shadow” Groundhog Bump game. These activities not only strengthened math skills but also encouraged strategic thinking and problem-solving.
Provocation of Prediction: Shadows and Reflections: The heartbeat of our week was the provocation center, where our students made predictions about whether the groundhog would see its shadow. Equipped with mirrors and glass rocks, they explored reflections and engaged in thoughtful discussions about the whims of weather and shadows.
Creative Alphabet Explorations: Monday marked our usual exploration into the letter of the week – G! Brainstorming sessions led to the creation of uppercase and lowercase G’s, alongside delightful playdough sculptures representing items that start with the letter G. Our directed drawing session brought Groundhogs to life on paper, a collaborative venture where each artist brought their unique touch to their creations.
Counting On in Math Adventures: Tuesday’s math exploration revolved around counting on. The little mathematicians engaged in building towers with 5 blocks, using a spinner to determine whether to add 1 or 2 blocks to their towers. This playful approach to counting not only reinforced numerical skills but also introduced a strategy for counting on without starting from scratch. Spinner and idea taken from Carole Fullerton’s new “Good Questions Lessons and Tasks for Building Number Sense in Kindergarten and Grade One.”
Halfway to Grade 1 Celebration: Midweek Joy! On Wednesday, we took a brief pause from our groundhog adventures to revel in a special moment – our “Halfway to Grade 1” celebration! The classroom buzzed with excitement as we reflected on our favorite memories and experiences in Kindergarten so far.
Math Marvels: Exploring the Concept of Half: Our math lesson became an interactive journey into the concept of “half.” Fraction circles made their debut, and the air was filled with joy as we played and explored with these colorful tools. The pizza shop activity captured our imagination as we worked with table mates to figure out how many pieces it took to create a whole pizza using different-sized fraction pieces.
The hands-on exploration not only enhanced our understanding of fractions but also turned learning into a delightful, collaborative adventure. It was heartening to witness the budding mathematicians in action!
Celebrating Together: Outdoor Delights and Treats: To cap off our special day, we ventured outdoors with our fellow Kindergarten friends for a celebration filled with treats and snacks. Laughter echoed through the air as we enjoyed the simple pleasures of being together, fostering a sense of community and shared joy.
The midpoint to Grade 1 was marked not only by academic growth but by the bonds and friendships that have blossomed in our kindergarten community.
Crafty Thursday: G is for Goose! 🦢 Thursday unfolded with our customary letter craft session, and this time, we delved into the letter ‘G’ by crafting adorable geese. The room was buzzing with creativity as little hands eagerly molded playdough into uppercase and lowercase G’s, along with imaginative representations of items starting with this letter.
The artistic expressions were as varied as the personalities in our classroom, showcasing the unique flair each child brings to their creations.
Friday’s Prediction Excitement: Early Spring or More Winter? 🤔🌷 Friday brought a sense of anticipation as we gathered to make our predictions about whether the groundhog would see his shadow, foretelling an early spring, or if we were in for more winter days. The votes were split down the middle, creating an air of suspense.
After casting our predictions, we decided to investigate the groundhog’s official proclamation. Drumroll, please… The groundhog did not see his shadow! Cheers erupted in our classroom as we celebrated the prospect of an early spring.
Crafting Groundhog Puppets: Pop-up Fun and Shadow Play! 🌈🐾 To cap off our week, we engaged in a hands-on craft activity, creating charming groundhog puppets that playfully popped out of burrows. These puppets became our companions as we explored the magic of shadows using a projector.
The giggles and gasps of amazement filled the room as the children manipulated their puppets to create different shadows on the screen. This activity not only fostered creativity but also provided a tangible way for them to understand the concept of shadows.
Reflecting on a Week of Wonder: As we wrap up Groundhog Week, we reflect on the laughter, learning, and shared moments that have made this week truly special. Each day brought new discoveries and opportunities for our young minds to grow.
Stay tuned for more adventures in the coming weeks, as we continue our journey of exploration and learning together.
Monday and Tuesday marked the kickoff of our much-anticipated Penguin Week in the classroom, and the excitement was palpable! As we always do, we transformed our learning space into a penguin paradise, with each table geared towards a unique theme, creating an immersive and engaging environment for exploration and discovery.
Table Themes:
Sensory Bin Wonderland: The sensory bin was a snowy haven, filled with white snow and an array of animals found in colder climates. Students dove into this frosty landscape, exploring textures and learning about the inhabitants of chilly regions.
Alphabet Adventure: At the alphabet table, students encountered an array of alphabet unifix cubes and the entertaining Penguin Alphabet Bump game. Matching letters became an exciting endeavor as penguins and letters came together in a delightful learning experience.
Grab these for free at my TPT store at the link below
Counting Stew Extravaganza: The counting stew table was a winter wonderland of mittens, snowmen, icicles, and more. Students engaged in counting activities, honing their math skills while enjoying the wintry charm of their counting stew.
Math Exploration Station: At the math bump table, students had a blast with 12-sided dice and math bump, exploring numerical concepts in a lively and interactive manner. Learning became a game, making math both educational and entertaining.
Penguin Slide and Glide Challenge: The penguin slide and glide table featured the intriguing math spinners. Here, students delved into addition and subtraction skills, maneuvering their penguins to keep them from slipping off the icy precipice. A truly engaging way to reinforce math concepts!
Artistic Freedom Zone: The art table, intentionally left theme-free, encouraged free exploration with recycled paper, scissors, glue, and various art materials. Students expressed their creativity and individuality, letting their imaginations soar.
Habitat Exploration at the Train Table: The train table became a penguin habitat exploration play zone, complete with loose parts and our previously crafted wet felting mats. Students had the opportunity to delve into the intricacies of penguin habitats through hands-on play.
Monday’s Adventures: We kicked off the week by diving into our letter of the week – U! Students molded uppercase and lowercase U’s out of playdough, all while brainstorming the myriad things that start with the letter U. Our directed drawing session took a chilly turn as we put pencil to paper and brought adorable penguins to life.
Tuesday’s Penguin Olympics: Tuesday saw us immerse ourselves in the world of Emperor Penguins through non-fiction books. Channeling our inner Emperor Penguin Dads, we practiced the art of balancing balls on our feet and waddling around the classroom, adding a touch of whimsy to our learning journey.
Wednesday marked another exciting day in our penguin-filled week of exploration and learning. Our classroom buzzed with enthusiasm as we delved into the delightful world of penguins, sliding and gliding with our feathery friends on a fun penguin ice cube table.
Slide and Glide Penguin Ice Cube Table: The highlight of the day was undoubtedly our Slide and Glide Penguin Ice Cube Table. Laughter filled the air as students joyfully slid their penguins around on miniature ice cubes, immersing themselves in a frosty world of waddles and slippery adventures. The sensory experience added a dynamic layer to our penguin-themed week, creating lasting memories of Arctic escapades.
Writing Adventures: Punctuation Marks and Volcanic Stories: Wednesday also brought an exciting writing lesson as we continued our journey towards the halfway mark to grade one. Our primary focus in these writing sessions is to instill a love of writing in our kindergarten stars. Each lesson follows a structured format, beginning with a mini lesson from a captivating picture book, followed by a demonstration of writing skills, and then a gradual release of responsibility as the students embark on crafting their own stories.
This week, our writing adventure centered around punctuation marks, which we playfully referred to as “stop signs for the reader.” We drew inspiration from the charming story “Oh No, George!” to understand the importance of punctuation in our writing.
For my own writing example, I shared a tale from a different season, drawing upon my summer experiences. I recounted my visit to a volcano, weaving in vivid details from my trip to Yellowstone National Park. The students were captivated by the story, and I sent them off to embark on their own writing journeys.
Surprisingly, the collective interest sparked by my volcanic tale led to a flurry of stories about volcanoes from the little authors in our classroom. It seems we might have stumbled upon a shared fascination that we’ll have to explore further in the future. Providing the freedom for students to choose their writing topics not only fosters individual creativity but also eliminates the struggle of deciding what to write about, ensuring that our writing time is productive and enjoyable for all.
Thursday brought a unique twist to our week as it became a ‘no bus day’ due to challenging road conditions. Despite the smaller class size, it turned out to be a fantastic day filled with extra playtime, additional classroom cleaning, and exciting new additions to our learning space.
Creative Ownership in Dramatic Play: With the help of our eager students, we introduced a new dramatic play center that stirred up a buzz of excitement – the Pancake Cafe! Though our dramatic centers may not make it to the pages of Pinterest, their real beauty lies in the joy and enthusiasm the students bring to them. The Pancake Cafe is quickly becoming a hub of creativity, with students taking ownership and infusing their own ideas into the center. It’s a place where learning becomes a personalized experience, and their excitement is palpable.
Letter Craft Adventure: Under the Dirt: Thursday was also dedicated to unleashing our artistic side as we delved into our letter craft activity. The theme of the day was “under the dirt,” and it’s remarkable to witness the growth in our students’ willingness to try new things and take risks over the past half-year.
Creativity flowed as we crafted scenes featuring gummy worm “under the dirt” inhabitants and red dirt, inspired by the discovery of fossils in the dirt crafts. One student enthusiastically explained that fossils somehow turn the dirt red – a charming detail that showcases their imaginative minds at work.
Fitness Friday Fun: Our morning kicked off with Fitness Friday, a fantastic way to energize our bodies and minds. From stretching to jumping jacks, our penguins waddled their way through a series of fun exercises, fostering not just physical activity but also enhancing focus and engagement.
Exploring Numerical Depths: In our ongoing math adventures, we delved into the world of numbers, discovering the concept of magnitude through an entertaining game of “War.” The game not only reinforced our understanding of numbers but also brought out the playful and competitive spirit in our little mathematicians.
Balloon Tennis Bliss: Midday brought an unexpected twist with a delightful balloon tennis activity. Our penguins showed off their racket skills as they batted balloons back and forth, bringing joy, laughter, and a touch of friendly competition to our Friday festivities.
Forest Friday Adventure: As the week drew to a close, we wrapped up our Friday with our beloved Forest Friday tradition. This time, our adventurous explorers ventured into the enchanted depths of the back forest. From observing nature’s wonders to imagining stories inspired by the rustling leaves, our forest adventure provided a perfect end to our week.
Reflecting on Penguin Week: Throughout the week, our penguins dived into the world of these fascinating birds, exploring their habitats, creating penguin-themed masterpieces, and discovering the joy of learning through play. We’ve witnessed curiosity, creativity, and collaboration bloom in our classroom.
A Grateful Goodbye: As we say goodbye to Penguin Week, we want to express our deepest gratitude for your ongoing support and partnership. Your involvement enhances the learning journey for each penguin in our class, making every day a new opportunity for discovery.
We hope you enjoy the weekend and share in the excitement of your child’s penguin adventures. Stay tuned for more incredible learning journeys ahead!
In our kindergarten class, learning is an adventure, and this week’s journey took us back in time to the Mesozoic era with a thrilling exploration of dinosaurs. The classroom transformed into a prehistoric playground, igniting curiosity and fostering creativity among our young learners.
Setting the Scene:
As we delved into the world of dinosaurs, each table became a hub of exploration, aligning with different learning topics. From alphabet bumps to math games, art projects, and sensory bins, every corner held an opportunity for discovery. The classroom buzzed with excitement as students eagerly engaged with the various hands-on activities.
1. Alphabet Adventures: Dinosaur Style
At the alphabet table, students immersed themselves in the Dinosaur Alphabet Bump. Roars of excitement filled the air as they rolled dice and matched letters, reinforcing their understanding of the alphabet in a playful manner.
The math table hosted the Dinosaur Math Bump, where numbers and dinosaurs collided. This interactive game not only enhanced numerical skills but also sparked the imagination as students explored different aspects of math through the lens of these prehistoric creatures.
Creativity soared at the art table, where students engaged in cut-and-paste activities featuring the mighty T-Rex. The classroom echoed with the sounds of scissors and glue, as young paleontologists crafted their own T-Rex masterpieces.
4. Sensory Excitement: Dinosaur Skeletons and Kinetic Sand
The sensory bin transported students into the past with dinosaur skeletons buried in kinetic sand. This hands-on experience allowed them to feel the texture of ancient bones and engage in imaginative play within their own dinosaur world.
5. Dino Dig: Unearthing Bones in the Rice Table
A dinosaur dig awaited at the rice table, offering students the chance to match up dinosaur skeletons and learn about the anatomy of these fascinating creatures.
6. Dinosaur Playground and Habitat Building
The dinosaur playground provided a space for exploration, where miniature dinosaurs roamed through habitats crafted with the wet felting projects from the previous week. The classroom echoed with roars and laughter as students immersed themselves in imaginative play.
7. Dinosaur Stew Counting Collections
No dinosaur week is complete without a bit of play involving counting collections. Dinosaur stew became the focal point, allowing students to play and explore numbers in a fun and interactive way.
Monday – Letter D Exploration: The week kicked off with an exploration of the letter D. Brainstorming sessions fueled our understanding of all things starting with D, and playdough creations brought the letter to life in both uppercase and lowercase forms.
Tuesday – Storytelling and Writing: We delved into the art of storytelling inspired by “Ralph Tells a Story,” emphasizing that every moment holds a story waiting to be told. Writing became a joyful activity as we shared our own tales.
Wednesday – Special Visitors and Outdoor Adventures: Midweek brought unexpected joy with special visitors from Columeetza, turning our day into a delightful collaboration. Outdoor adventures included sledding, laughter, and a shared love for the snowy landscape.
Thursday – Cut and Paste Letter Craft: Fine motor skills took center stage as students crafted adorable ducks in a cut-and-paste letter craft session, focusing on the letter D.
Friday – Salt Dough Fossil Making: The week concluded with a hands-on activity, making salt dough fossils. Each student picked their favorite dinosaur, creating and molding their very own fossils. These treasures will dry over the weekend, ready to go home as a testament to a week filled with discovery.
Reflecting on the Learning:
Throughout the week, dinosaur books fueled our imaginations, and the wonder wall overflowed with questions and curiosities about these magnificent creatures. Math exploration included dice counting, number representation, and then counting out a collection of items to represent the the number. As always our classroom is built around a lot of choice so students were given the choice on how they wanted to work. They could chose an individual whiteboard and work at a desk individually or with a classmate or they could work vertically on the larger whiteboards. We also like to have at least one block of collaborative learning during math tubs where student are given the choice of different math manipulatives and they are given time to choose a material to explore and play. It is incredible to watch their growth and development when we start from an individual area of interest and to watch them grow and learn and teach each other as a group!
Fostering a Love for Learning:
In our kindergarten class, we believe in creating a learning environment that sparks curiosity, encourages exploration, and nurtures a love for learning. Dinosaur week wasn’t just about dinosaurs; it was a journey of discovery, creativity, and collaboration. As we bid farewell to our salt dough fossils drying on the shelf, we eagerly anticipate the next adventure that awaits our young learners. Stay tuned for more tales from our kindergarten classroom!
As the winter chill settles in and snowflakes dance outside the window, there’s a special kind of excitement in the air in our classroom. It’s Snowman Week, a time dedicated to exploring the magical world of snowmen and integrating a variety of learning opportunities for our curious little minds. This week-long adventure not only captivates the students’ imaginations but also provides a rich environment for inquiry-based learning.
Setting the Stage:
The classroom is transformed into a winter wonderland with engaging activities at every turn. Each table is dedicated to a unique snowman-themed exploration, ensuring that every child finds something that sparks their curiosity. From literacy to math, sensory play to art, Snowman Week encompasses a wide range of learning experiences.
At the literacy table, students dive into the world of letters with the Snowman Alphabet Bump. This interactive game not only reinforces letter recognition but also encourages collaboration and friendly competition. As children engage with this activity, they build a foundation for early literacy skills while having fun.
Over at the math table, excitement is brewing with the Mini Dice Snowman Bump. This game introduces the concept of counting and strategizing, all while building adorable snowmen. The mini dice add an element of surprise and challenge, making math a joyous experience.
Art Table – Creative Snowman Masterpieces:
Creativity takes center stage at the art table, where students express themselves through Snowman art projects. Drawing inspiration from their Monday-directed drawing session, the class collaborates to create unique and imaginative snowmen. The emphasis on creative expression allows each child to showcase their individuality.
Sensory Bin – Fake Snow Adventure:
The sensory bin is transformed into a snowy landscape with the introduction of fake snow. As children explore this wintry texture, they engage their senses, fostering sensory development and imaginative play. The sensory bin becomes a miniature snow world where students can build, mold, and explore the magic of winter.
Daily Soft Start and Letter of the Week:
The day begins with a soft start at table time, offering students the freedom to wander and explore the various materials set out on the tables. This week’s focus is on the letter “M,” providing a platform for brainstorming and creative activities related to this letter. Playdough becomes a tool for shaping both uppercase and lowercase “M’s,” as well as crafting items that start with the chosen letter.
Monday’s Directed Drawing:
Mondays kick off with a directed drawing session, promoting active listening and following directions. This week’s masterpiece? Snowmen! The collaborative drawing session allows students to work together, share ideas, and develop their artistic skills.
Flexibility is key in our classroom, and this week was no exception. Despite initial plans for a snowman-themed dramatic center, the students’ keen interest in playing doctor led to a spontaneous setup of a hospital dramatic play area. This adaptability ensures that learning remains dynamic and responsive to the evolving interests of the students.
Counting Safari – Math Exploration:
While the overarching theme is snowmen, the week also aligns with ongoing math skill development. The “Counting Safari” activity takes center stage, offering various counting collection bags, each adorned with different animal stickers. This clever integration of counting and animal recognition keeps the students motivated as they embark on a safari of mathematical exploration.
We finished the week off with an exploration into wet felting with a final project that we can use in our loose parts play in the weeks coming up. We created our mats out of felt and layered smaller pieces on top and added hot water and rubbed it all together!
Conclusion:
Snowman Week isn’t just about snowmen; it’s a holistic approach to learning that incorporates literacy, math, art, and sensory experiences. By fostering an environment of inquiry and adaptability, this themed week becomes a memorable journey through the winter wonderland, igniting curiosity and laying the foundation for a love of learning that extends beyond the snowy season.
Welcome fellow Kindergarten teachers I am so glad you have joined me here today. This coming week we will be doing a spider inquiry and I have some fantastic ideas for you to use in your own classrooms. Typically, I would do a spider unit before Halloween but this year has kind of gotten away from me so we are doing it after Halloween.
Scope & Purpose
We will be learning about the parts of a spider, where they live, how they adapt over time and the life cycle of a spider. Additionally we will be learning about how spiders help our environment.
Essential questions:
What do we notice about spiders?
How do spiders adapt to their surroundings?
How do spiders change over time?
What are the parts of an spider?
Plus any additional questions that the students generate themselves
Talk about what things spiders eat. Are spiders helpful to have around in our houses? Why or why not?
3. Read the Very Busy Spider by Eric Carle
Discuss how a spider makes a web. What are is spider webs made of. Watch the are spider webs stronger than steel video. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eXppg5vcXIQ Build and test our own spider webs
4. Read The Spider by Elise Gavel
Are spiders a misunderstood animals. Brainstorm all the ways that spiders help the Earth. Directed draw of a spider and label all the parts of a spider.
5. Read “The Diary of a Spider by Doreen Cronin
Write a letter or journal entry telling your story as a spider. What are some things you do during the day.
6. Read “Aaargh Spider”
Go on a spider hunt outside. Catch the spider in the bug viewer. Make sure we return the spider to where they came from. Add any new ideas and learning to the K/W/L chart
What are the features that makes a spider a spider? Brainstorm all the features of spiders. Spider/ Insect sorting activity. Add any new learning to the K/W/ L chart
Spiderweb STEAM challenge. In small groups or partners give out materials and students need to design and test their spiderweb to see how much it can hold.
10. Read “There was an Old Mummy who Swallowed a Spider”
Writing activity. Write from the perspective of a spider what would you swallow if you were a spider?
11. Read “I’m Trying to Love Spiders”
In partners or small group students can use any forum. Art/ drama/science etc to convince the class that to squish the spider or save the spider.
Suggested books:
This book is a great non fiction book to start the inquiry with to build a basic understanding of spiders. After reading add any new ideas to to the K/W/ L chart and create the life cycle of the spider together as a class. Tomorrow put the book out at a table with materials and pictures to recreate the life cycle of a spider. This picture packs tons of learning into the illustrations as well as the text and it is one of those ones that students pick up again and again to look through.
It is hard to go wrong with Eric Carle. His illustrations always inspire so much artistic creativity. His books inspires you to think of how busy spiders are and how they help us. However something about reading Eric Carle always inspires you to pull out your paints or pastels and create your own art. I would use this to start the conversations and experiment on how strong a spider web is. I would also put this books out at the art table with some art supplies and see what it inspires students to do during Table Time or Centres for an Art Provocation for the week.
I love how the illustrator combined so many facts about spider but also managed to convey the feelings of the spider. Throughout the entire book you can not help but feel sorry for the spider because all they are trying to do is be helpful. I would use this story at the end of the unit to start a conversation on what would you do in that situation. Are spiders helpful or not?
The illustrations in this story are phenomenal and they inspire so much creativity and imagination. There is so much happening in just the illustrations. I would use this story to begin the conversation to thinking about what kinds of things spiders do eat instead of just mosquitoes.
Kindy Play 