Pencil Grip Resources

Click the links for a thorough explanation of  correct pencil grip development, exercises to strengthen hands and fingers, and the importance of crossing the mid-line!

Patterns, People, & Playdo!

There are many things happening in our classroom that do not result in a finished product that is taken home!

Pattern blocks provide an opportunity to explore shapes, see symmetrical images, and begin a study of geometry.
This week, the children learned the proper way to use these blocks.  They worked in teams, as well as on their own.
The pictures below show bear patterns.  We perfected AB patterns 
(i.e. red/blue, /red/blue).

During Literacy Block, the children began their phonics work pages.  They are discerning the sounds for t and i (short vowel).  They also began to blend these sounds together.  Writing t and i is a bit more challenging!  The letter t "drives on both sides of the road", while i begins at the center of the writing road.  You may be noticing that your child is writing more lower-case letters in his/her name; celebrate this achievement!  Playdo was used in writing rotations, to help us feel the shape of the letters.  

This activity was completed in conjunction with the book
"The Crayon Box That Talked".  
It will come home soon in the W.O.W. binder!

During Morning Work, the children are adding to their journals.  This week, we drew family portraits,
things that make us smile, and future careers
(there are quite a few ballerinas and princesses!).
You will see the journals 
at conferences
in October.

The children are building stamina during circle time,
 table work, and reading sessions.
This picture shows the class "Reading To Self"! 
During this reading component, students choose a book 
that is a good fit (interest, reading level, etc.). 
 They find a quiet spot, stay on task, and read
until the bell rings.  We have reached a sustainable 5 minutes during "Read To Self"; fabulous!

The pictures below show students "Reading To Someone".  During this component, students sit side-by-side 
as they take turns sharing two books.
We have shown great success with this activity!

 

100% Memory

Hurray!  Yippee!  Congratulations!


EVERYONE knew the memory verse for August 19, Psalm 25:4.
I am impressed and thankful to all of you!

Original artwork by Beria Charles,  beriablogs.com

Busy, Busy, Busy

2011-2012

During math stations, everyone had the opportunity
to sort the blocks.

We drew self-portraits for the first page of our journals.

This is Splat the Cat!  Very soon, he will arrive at your homes with his red backpack, journal, and book!

The First Day

Our first day was fabulous! Everyone arrived ready to learn.

In order to make the days run smoothly, here are a few suggestions:
Please practice the art and skill of tying shoes!
Provide AM snacks that do not involve liquids, dressings, utensils.
Everyone needs a small blankie or towel, everyday, for rest time.
Practice the memory verse at home!

Thank you for sharing your precious children with me. They have already captured my heart!

I Is For Ice Cream

On Tuesday, Aug. 9, the kindergarten families gathered on the playground for fun and fellowship!
"Thank you" to everyone in attendance, including Mrs. Gregory and members of the school board.

Abbey

Lilliann

Natalie and sister

Run!