Birthdays
I love birthdays! There's nothing like feeling you get to have all day long when it's your special day. I have to say that my girls have reminded me of the excitement that comes from celebrating the day they were born. I love the smile on their faces, the twinkle in their eyes, and the joy they get from being surrounded by loved ones. This is a picture of Maddie, my little rock star, on her second birthday. We had a great celebration!
Although we devote each day at school to rigorous learning, I have a few things planned to celebrate birthdays in our classroom. Prior to the special day, your student will bring home an 'All About Me' poster to fill out and color. During our morning meeting the poster will be read to the class and hung near our door for all to see. Families are encouraged to send in one card or letter with a special message for the birthday boy or girl. I got this idea from watching Sprout with my girls! A birthday poem will be recited, and the class will sign a card for your student to bring home. Keep in mind that our school's policy regarding birthday treats must be followed, and therefore we will not be passing out food items as part of our birthday celebrations. If you do not wish for your child's birthday to be celebrated, they can still decorate an 'All About Me' poster to share with the class. Just let me know when you would like to do this, and I'll take care of the rest. Also, don't worry if your child has a summer birthday like Maddie does, we'll find another day to celebrate just the same!
Although we devote each day at school to rigorous learning, I have a few things planned to celebrate birthdays in our classroom. Prior to the special day, your student will bring home an 'All About Me' poster to fill out and color. During our morning meeting the poster will be read to the class and hung near our door for all to see. Families are encouraged to send in one card or letter with a special message for the birthday boy or girl. I got this idea from watching Sprout with my girls! A birthday poem will be recited, and the class will sign a card for your student to bring home. Keep in mind that our school's policy regarding birthday treats must be followed, and therefore we will not be passing out food items as part of our birthday celebrations. If you do not wish for your child's birthday to be celebrated, they can still decorate an 'All About Me' poster to share with the class. Just let me know when you would like to do this, and I'll take care of the rest. Also, don't worry if your child has a summer birthday like Maddie does, we'll find another day to celebrate just the same!
Snacks
Each day, students may enjoy an optional healthy snack. Due to our busy schedule, there will be several 'working' snack times for your child to choose from. Students will continue their class work while eating their snack, so please consider our environment and your child's health when choosing a snack for the day. Raw fruits and vegetables, pretzels, cheese, etc. are encouraged. I once had a student bring 1/2 a turkey sandwich on whole wheat bread for snack. This is a great option that is high in fiber and protein! Since snack is optional, any item that contains nuts, is unhealthy (chips, chocolate, candy, items high in sugar) or nonconductive to the working environment will be reserved for lunch.
Click on the links below to read more about healthy snacks for kids!
Click on the links below to read more about healthy snacks for kids!
Water Bottles
Recent studies have shown that staying hydrated is essential for quality mental functioning and concentration at school. With that being said, your child is welcome to bring a bottle of water from home as long as it does not interfere with regular classroom routines and our class environment. Please make sure the bottle has either a sports cap lid like the one shown in this photo, or a built-in straw so that it doesn't spill if toppled over. Also, a reusable bottle should be taken home each day to be cleaned and refilled. I cannot guarantee that there will be enough time in our busy day for refilling water bottles at school, and regularly cleaning the bottles at home will prevent bacteria growth on your child's bottle.
Click on the link below to read more about the benefits of drinking water.
Click on the link below to read more about the benefits of drinking water.