“Just Keep Swimming” ~ Nemo

From the comfort of our homes, we are like most of you…holding on day by day, exercising, playing games with the kids, supporting and learning in new ways, and working differently. Even though it seems dim right now, it doesn’t mean we stop shining! We are very new to this behind the scenes role. During this time, we have learned to appreciate the littlest of things that didn’t seem essential to us. Now, we understand that this is the only way we can reach you and continue to teach our children.

We have learned to appreciate TECHNOLOGY and can’t wait to continue growing in this area, to inspire our children even from behind a screen. Thank you for allowing us to enter your homes, lending us your trusting hearts, and believing in our ways. Know that we are working very hard and our goals continue to be the same. Our hearts are full today because of you. We are so lucky to walk this tricky time alongside you and your beautiful children. We are so thankful and motivated by all your love and beautiful messages.

As the days go by, we will continue to update you and provide you with more resources and enrichment activities on BOX, Zoom, and also check out our P2 facebook page! 

Wishing you all good health and peace. 

MUCH LOVE

Ms. Jessie, Ms. Sadie, Ms. Julie

Dinosaurs are fascinating! 

We have started our dinosaur studies with “What is a reptile?” Reptiles thrive in hot places. Chances are we might have a reptile living in our backyard.  If you find an animal laying in the sun that has a backbone, dry scales, and is cold blooded, then it must be a reptile. This is a wonderful time to discuss amphibians too. We compared both groups, finding similarities and differences too. Most of these animals are oviparous, reptiles look like their parents right from the time they are born, while amphibians don’t! 

This was a great opportunity to introduce the word metamorphosis and life cycles. We have objects for each stage and hands on science experiments. For example, we immersed chia seeds in water and allowed them to inflate. This gave us a realistic visual for frog eggs. They were clustered, slimy, and perfectly bubbly to help us imagine we were holding frog eggs! Some of us even ate them.  

On our science shelf, we are using realistic dinosaur models for hands on activities that are a perfect introduction to paleontology. We’ve been having lots of fun putting together Montessori-inspired activities using replicas, dinosaur pictures, and puzzle maps! In addition, we have a tray containing dinosaur books, coloring pages, scissors, glue, and a stapler to make into a booklet or help with student’s research. 

Around this time of year, our children are a little older and are ready for cooperative games such as memory games, sorting, exchange games, I spy, dice, graphing, etc. These activities could be made into cooperative games where children work together, take turns, and problem solve. It’s also a great opportunity to teach good sportsmanship.

At the end of an activity or game, the children are invited to shake hands with each other and say, “Good game!” It’s helpful for children to learn the social etiquette for games without the emotions involved in winning and losing. Hopefully, that will make it easier for them to remember to show good sportsmanship during an actual competitive game.

Valentines Party

Our children enjoyed a delightful morning with friends and parent helpers. We prepared and enjoyed a savory Valentines snack! We made thumbprint heart magnets to share with our family whom we love and appreciate so much. At the end of our festivities, students exchanged Valentines cards and treats with friends, while gathering around circle for a pajama story time. 

Mindful Play

At recess, our kids hit the playground with tons of excitement and stopping has sometimes become just so hard to do. Our ninjas, cats, and heroes are often so engaged in their roles that they are not paying attention. Teaching children about boundaries early on is a must and an ongoing journey.  Our new generation is spending less time outside resulting in less opportunities to practice social and gross motor skills. February is a wonderful reminder to all of us to strengthen our relationship with ourselves and others. We encourage parents to touch base with your children and talk about the importance of safety. Manners are a great place to start! 

Field-trip

Our field trip to the  Discovery Children’s Museum was a success! Our children loved exploring the exhibits on every level with all types of hands on activities for all ages to enjoy.  From interactive science galleries, as well as sliding and climbing structures, to an environmentally friendly city filled with familiar buildings and businesses. Time flew by! While some of us wanted to stay for a few more minutes, others took advantage of a snooze on the ride back!  Thank you!