Sunshine Scoop

The Sunshine Mathematicians are hard at work, exploring the next level of Magic Garden’s Everyday Mathematics curriculum. The students have graduated to the expansion level of counting. Great job, girls and guys!

During Circle Time, the kiddos listened to Donald Crews classic children’s book Ten Black Dots. Focusing on numerals 1-10, the children took part in numerous, whole-group counting activities. Later, drawing on inspiration from Mr. Crews, the pupils crafted their own mixed media collage, incorporating their own black dots. In the coming days, the boys and girls will explore parquetry shapes and accompanying pattern boards, as well as a racecar counting game to further hone their math skills. What a great deal of learning!

Sunshine’s Magical Mindfulness curriculum continues! Recently, the children used serenity spirals during a morning meeting session. With their index fingers, the Sunshiners listened to calming music while tracing the spirals in firm concentration. This practice provides a method of meditation and relaxation. Some friends exclaimed, “I feel quieter.” And other students said, “I feel relaxed!” Mindfulness is always a vital component in our classroom! Coming up: The Sunshine Class will celebrate Magic Garden’s annual Read Across America month. Many special guests are scheduled to visit our room with their favorite selections of children’s literature!

Starburst Happenings

The Starburst scientists are bustling in their lab of wonder, learning and super fun times! Recently, the boys and girls took part in a very official snow crystal observation. They placed sheets of dark- colored construction paper in the freezer, to allow them to chill. As fresh snow began to flutter down from the sky, they placed their sheets on the pavement and gathered flakes. Using magnifying glasses, the students observed and identified the different snowflakes and snow crystals!

In other frosty happenings, the Starburst kiddos are exploring the fascinating world of polar bears! Did you know that polar bears have a thick layer of blubber under their skin to keep toasty? Did you know that these fuzzy creatures are expert swimmers? Did you know that they live in the Arctic Circle? Just ask our little scientists. They are polar bear specialists!

Coming up: The Starburst friends will celebrate Read Across America! Also, a new unit on rhyming!