This afternoon, we further explored the states, and changes in states of matter by making play dough.  This was a really fun activity, and the kids had a lot of fun following a recipe, measuring ingredients, and exploring the changes.  The children identified what was a solid, and liquid, as well as the different properties of play dough.  This was a great way to end a fun Valentine’s Day!

We started Valentine’s Day off by learning about solids, liquids and gasses.  We did this by exploring and observing with a root beer float.  The children identified the properties and different states of matter in the float.  Then, we did some observations of the floats.  The children were so engaged, and did some remarkable observations.  This was a really fun way to start the day!

Given that this week, and last were cut short, we will continue to review the skills from last week.  In spelling, we will practice a list of homophones.  The challenging part of this week’s spelling is to not only know how to spell the words, but to be able to match the correct spelling to the correct meaning.

We had another great yoga session with Mrs. Caron!  This week’s focus was love!  The children had a great time!

This week, we have continued to review telling time.  Some children are still working on mastering time to the half-hour, while others are working on five minute intervals.  Clock concentration is a great way to practice telling time.  We use a deck that has digital, analog and time in words.  We worked on matching different times.  For example, children had to match a digital time with an analog clock.  This would be a great way to practice at home.  You could use index cards and draw times.  Even just asking your child to read an analog clock at home at random times would help them to practice.

FROM THE SCHOOL NURSE:  FLU SEASON IS UPON US!  In addition to the high fevers and respiratory issues of flu-like illness, I’m also seeing children with nausea/vomiting, especially in the younger grades.  PLEASE KEEP SICK CHILDREN AT HOME!  Your cooperation helps limit the spread of illness to other community members.  Remember that any child with fever over 100 should remain out of school until 24 hours after the fever is gone WITHOUT the use of Tylenol or Advil.  Likewise, children should remain at home for at least 24 hours after the last bout of vomiting.

• A few of our kiddos have been struck by some icky viruses, including a confirmed case of Strep.  We have been trying to be diligent with hand-washing and surface cleaning.  We are starting to run low on disinfectant wipes (as we are trying to wipe surfaces more regularly).  I have been soooooo grateful for all of the donations we received at the beginning of the year.  They have kept our surfaces clean thus far!  We would love a few donations, so we can keep our surfaces clean, regularly.  Thank you so much, in advance!