Dear Joyful Beginning Families,
Thank you to all of our families who joined us this past Saturday for our All School Meeting. Coming together as a community to support our lovely school is what keeps us strong and helps us grow.
We had a wonderful week and cherished the warmth from Father Sun. The children were able to spend a significant amount of time outside in the mornings, engaging in active play with their peers. In the forest, children begin to show an interest in practical work, such as sweeping the platform and planting branches as if they were small trees.
We began a new story in class to talk about the 12 zodiac animals. The Jade Emperor decided there should be a way to measure time, so he told the animals that they were to compete in a race. The first twelve animals to win would be rewarded by having a year named after them. One by one came the ox, tiger, rabbit, dragon, snake, horse, sheep, monkey, rooster, dog, and pig. From that day forward, the zodiac has followed a 12-year cycle, each named after an animal. The children enjoyed seeing the 12 animals on the story table and were curious about who would show up next. This story not only introduces our younger students to a different culture but it also illustrates the concept of sequence in a playful way.
Wet felting has been progressing wonderfully. Rolling a ball of wool in young children's hands can be challenging at first, but it is a fun activity that strengthens their fine motor abilities. We will continue with this activity this week, providing adequate help and encouragement to each child. On Wednesday, we will celebrate Ellis' birthday. We're excited to spend this wonderful time with him and his family.
As Valentine's Day approaches, we plan to have a "Favorite Stuffy" day in the classroom on February 13th and 14th. Each child may bring their favorite plush animal to school. Please help your children select a small toy and remind them that they can only play with their stuffed animals in our indoor space. As has been our tradition at The Garden School, instead of sending cards from home on Valentine's Day, please save all card and gift exchanges for off-campus playdates.
Announcements and Reminders:
Please arrive on time at drop-off (8:45–9:00), and look out for the drop-off sign when arriving at school. On cold, rainy, cloudy, and windy mornings, we will start inside.
(as noted above:) As has been our tradition at The Garden School, instead of sending cards from home on Valentine's Day, please save all card and gift exchanges for off-campus playdates.
Upcoming Events:
2/8 Half Day - Parent Conferences
2/9 No School - Parent Conferences
2/19-2/23- Mid-Winter Break (No School)
2/26- Teacher Inservice (No School)
Thank you for sharing your lovely children with us, and thank you for your support.
Warmly,
Ki Siyu and Ki Angela
