Dear Friends,
Good evening -- I trust that you all had a wonderful Thanksgiving Day vacation, and, that John had a "Happy Birthday!!" -- I noticed a birthday crown and decorations, when I arrived, today, so, there must have been a celebration at AM snack!! :)
And, a "Happy Birthday!!" to Ellie's Poppy Don, and, a thank-you to Ellie's Nanna Daphne, for the yummalicious ricotta cheese pie -- "MMMM . . . ", on behalf of all the teachers!!!!
Well, today was the last day of November's song and the first day of December's theme "Community Helpers" -- we will be very busy preparing for the Holidays, as well, and welcome you all to share family and cultural traditions, in the classroom -- our school's philosophy solidly encourages familial involvement.
When I arrived, it was already activity time, and, again, no worries -- the children played indoors, beautifully -- Mrs. Dolham and Miss Maggie were busy in the block area, where the kids were playing the roles of various community helpers, utilizing legos and blocks -- Miss Maggie was pretending to drive a truck -- "vroom, vroom!!" -- as well, she began teaching us a few words and phrases in Spanish, and, hopefully, will teach us a song or two.
Thanks to Kelly, Liz and Miss Sashi, the books, in our library, have been rotated to include the new theme, and, the school is beginning to look like a doctor's office, complete with cots, medical kits, an eye chart and post-it notes -- thank you, Kirsten, for the sign "Doctor's Office" , proudly displayed at the "Reception Desk".
Our Butterflies and Puppies enjoyed singing the "A" song, typing themed words, making "STOP" signs, playing Nutrition Lotto and the Doughnut Game and measuring our two Amaryllis plants -- our original plant is now nine inches tall, with a bud, and, our gift from Defne is now nine and a half inches tall -- WOW!!
We read many theme-related books today, about mail carriers, rescue vehicles and more, and, at PM meeting read "There Was A Cold Lady That Swallowed Some Snow", written by Lucille Colandro and illustrated by Jared Lee -- please ask your little ones what the Cold Lady made with the items she ate . . .
I enjoyed rest-time, with my small friends, today -- a real treat!!
Happy Trails!!
Love Miss Peacock XOXO
Monday, November 30, 2009
Thursday, November 26, 2009
TUESDAY AND WEDNESDAY, AT OUR CDC!!
Dear Fine-Feathered Friends,
Happy Thanksgiving Day!!
To all who participated in our Thanksgiving Day Feast, held on Tuesday, a great big "THANK YOU!!" It was quite a success!! Special thanks to Kelly and Liz, who did much of the preparation and virtually all of the cooking.
Liz "churned" fresh butter, with the children, to accompany our spectacular turkey, cooked by Kelly, gravy, mashed potatoes, green beans, carrots, stuffing, cornbread, cran-raspberry sauce and "Acorns" -- the dessert made by Tyler, and his mom, Melissa!!
The children enjoyed their feast at a beautifully decorated table, used their hand-made placemats, napkins fashioned into turkey shapes by Miss Sashi, and, some wore simple Pilgrim and Native American attire that we had made in the morning -- of course -- we have many wonderful photos -- and -- thank you, Debbie, Kirsten's mom, for helping us to serve the meal!!
On Tuesday, as well, our LHS friends made "glove turkeys", with the Butterflies and Puppies, and, played "Nutrition Lotto" -- one of the many new games and toys purchased, by Miss Downing, from Lakeshore -- (thank you, Kelly!!) -- and, when the students from our own MM C&T HS arrived, the children made embelished feathers, played with our beautiful new train set, (tx, Kel . . . :)), and in many of our themed learning centers -- our "rocket" became a "canoe" for the young Pilgrims and Native Americans!!
Of course, we sang songs and read stories, from books brought in by Kirsten and Nyah, as well as gathered together for "A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving".
Mrs. Goell led us all in the "Parade of Colors" and "Beanbag Fun"!! :)
On Wednesday, after much fun playing number bingo, the teachers acted-out "Stone Soup", for the kids, and, during activity time, Mrs. Dolham cut-up vegetables, with each of our little friends, to prepare our own version of said, which was truly delicious -- thank you, Liz!!
Prior to the performance, Liz led a very Thanksgiving-based Circle, and, taught us all how to "clap" in sign language!!
In the dramatic play area, many of the kids used pots and pans, utensils and pretend foods to make soup and muffins -- we colored paper turkeys, and played a couple of rounds of "Pin the Hat on the Turkey", which was great fun!!
Activities encouraging the use of fine motor skills, such as drawing and writing, lacing and building, were enjoyed, as well.
We surely packed a great deal of learning and fun into a very short week -- and, now -- it is time to celebrate Thanksgiving Day!!
ENJOY!!
Love Miss Peacock XOXO
Happy Thanksgiving Day!!
To all who participated in our Thanksgiving Day Feast, held on Tuesday, a great big "THANK YOU!!" It was quite a success!! Special thanks to Kelly and Liz, who did much of the preparation and virtually all of the cooking.
Liz "churned" fresh butter, with the children, to accompany our spectacular turkey, cooked by Kelly, gravy, mashed potatoes, green beans, carrots, stuffing, cornbread, cran-raspberry sauce and "Acorns" -- the dessert made by Tyler, and his mom, Melissa!!
The children enjoyed their feast at a beautifully decorated table, used their hand-made placemats, napkins fashioned into turkey shapes by Miss Sashi, and, some wore simple Pilgrim and Native American attire that we had made in the morning -- of course -- we have many wonderful photos -- and -- thank you, Debbie, Kirsten's mom, for helping us to serve the meal!!
On Tuesday, as well, our LHS friends made "glove turkeys", with the Butterflies and Puppies, and, played "Nutrition Lotto" -- one of the many new games and toys purchased, by Miss Downing, from Lakeshore -- (thank you, Kelly!!) -- and, when the students from our own MM C&T HS arrived, the children made embelished feathers, played with our beautiful new train set, (tx, Kel . . . :)), and in many of our themed learning centers -- our "rocket" became a "canoe" for the young Pilgrims and Native Americans!!
Of course, we sang songs and read stories, from books brought in by Kirsten and Nyah, as well as gathered together for "A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving".
Mrs. Goell led us all in the "Parade of Colors" and "Beanbag Fun"!! :)
On Wednesday, after much fun playing number bingo, the teachers acted-out "Stone Soup", for the kids, and, during activity time, Mrs. Dolham cut-up vegetables, with each of our little friends, to prepare our own version of said, which was truly delicious -- thank you, Liz!!
Prior to the performance, Liz led a very Thanksgiving-based Circle, and, taught us all how to "clap" in sign language!!
In the dramatic play area, many of the kids used pots and pans, utensils and pretend foods to make soup and muffins -- we colored paper turkeys, and played a couple of rounds of "Pin the Hat on the Turkey", which was great fun!!
Activities encouraging the use of fine motor skills, such as drawing and writing, lacing and building, were enjoyed, as well.
We surely packed a great deal of learning and fun into a very short week -- and, now -- it is time to celebrate Thanksgiving Day!!
ENJOY!!
Love Miss Peacock XOXO
"ALBEQUERKEY TURKEY"
"ALBEQUERKEY TURKEY"
ALBEQUERKEY, HE'S MY TURKEY
AND HE'S FEATHERED AND HE'S FINE
AND HE WOBBLES AND HE GOBBLES
AND I'M AWFULLY GLAD HE'S MINE!!
HE'S THE BEST PET
YOU COULD EVER GET
BETTER THAN A DOG OR CAT
ALBEQUERKEY, HE'S MY TURKEY
AND I'M AWFULLY GLAD OF THAT!!
ALBEQUERKEY, HE'S MY TURKEY
AND HE'S COZY IN HIS BED
'CAUSE FOR OUR THANKSGIVING DINNER
WE HAD SCRAMBLED EGGS INSTEAD!!!!
Courtesy of Miss Amy -- thank you!! :) -- and -- sung to the tune of "Oh My Darlin' Clementine"
"HAPPY THANKSGIVING DAY TO ALL!!" XOXOXOXOXOXOXOXOXOXOXOXOXO
ALBEQUERKEY, HE'S MY TURKEY
AND HE'S FEATHERED AND HE'S FINE
AND HE WOBBLES AND HE GOBBLES
AND I'M AWFULLY GLAD HE'S MINE!!
HE'S THE BEST PET
YOU COULD EVER GET
BETTER THAN A DOG OR CAT
ALBEQUERKEY, HE'S MY TURKEY
AND I'M AWFULLY GLAD OF THAT!!
ALBEQUERKEY, HE'S MY TURKEY
AND HE'S COZY IN HIS BED
'CAUSE FOR OUR THANKSGIVING DINNER
WE HAD SCRAMBLED EGGS INSTEAD!!!!
Courtesy of Miss Amy -- thank you!! :) -- and -- sung to the tune of "Oh My Darlin' Clementine"
"HAPPY THANKSGIVING DAY TO ALL!!" XOXOXOXOXOXOXOXOXOXOXOXOXO
Monday, November 23, 2009
"TOMORROW'S THANKSGIVING DAY FEAST!!"
Dear Friends, Families and Blog-Followers,
As it seems the case every year, the Holidays are very much upon us, all too soon!!
So, this year, thanks to the teachers, (especially Mrs. Dolham), and families, as well, we have planned a Thanksgiving Day Feast, to take place, tomorrow!!
This morning, we read " . . . If You Sailed On The Mayflower in 1620", written by Ann McGovern and illustrated by Anna DiVito, and, talked about the long, dangerous pilgrimage, as well as, the landing, the decision to settle, and, of course -- new friends -- the Native Americans, who taught the Pilgrims how to hunt for food, grow crops, survival techniques and a great deal more.
Miss Downing showed a(n) historical video clip.
Liz made-up a nice, little Thanksgiving "diddy", and, Mrs. Goell taught us, the following:
The turkey is a funny bird,
Whose head goes wobble, wobble;
The only song that he can sing is,
Gobble, gobble, gobble!!
(Sung to the tune, "Here We Go Round the Mulberry Bush")
Mrs. Dolham had the children make quite special placemats, for tomorrow's feast, and, I have fashioned simple Pilgrim and Native American themed head-bands, and, displayed a "Put the Hat on the Turkey Game -- and -- of course -- Miss Downing has prepared the acting-out of "Stone Soup"!!
Today, I arrived to Kelly reading "Dinofours -- I'm Not Your Friend", written by Stew Metzger and illustrated by Hans Wilhelm, by flashlight -- always great fun -- to our Butterflies and Puppies.
Kelly continues to work on Handwriting Without Tears, with the Butterflies, and, Liz continues to work on the days of the week and months of the year, with the Puppies.
Just before Circle Time, I read "Rosie's Walk", (twice!!), by Pat Hutchins and "Hush Little Alien", (a favorite sing-along!!), by Daniel Kirk.
At our Afternoon Meeting, we admired the photo of a lamb, taken at Drumlin Farm, and, measured our two Amaryllis plants -- approximately 7.5 " and 5 ", respectively.
We had much fun outdoors, and, during Activity Time, climbed on the -- very popular -- wooden structure, built with soft, foam blocks and pretend foods, had quite a lot of fun in the sensory table, as onions and wooden cars have now been added, studied cut-up vegetables, measured "more or less", and, worked on our "All About Me Robots" and with pattern cards -- fine and gross motor, science, math, language arts, art and social and emotional skills were fostered by such a wide array of activities.
In addition to our high-school friends from Lexington and Minuteman Career and Technical High Schools, we welcomed "Miss Maggie", today, who is the mom of three, (two who attended our CDC!!), and, now, studying Early Childhood Education at Middlesex College -- Miss Maggie will be joining us on Mondays -- WELCOME, MISS MAGGIE!!
Kira, Tiana, Andrea and Lainey prepared a very special "Glove Turkey" project, which they will assist the kids with, tomorrow morning -- thank you, Ladies, for all of your hard work!!!!
We trust that you are "wowed" by the school pictures, and, we are very grateful to those of you who have donated items to our "Toys for Tots" center, located in the Cubby Room -- and -- due to the Usborne book orders received thus far, our classroom has earned $100 in free books . . .
So . . . a greatly deserved THANK YOU, THANK YOU!!!!
Lots of Love, Miss Peacock XOXO
As it seems the case every year, the Holidays are very much upon us, all too soon!!
So, this year, thanks to the teachers, (especially Mrs. Dolham), and families, as well, we have planned a Thanksgiving Day Feast, to take place, tomorrow!!
This morning, we read " . . . If You Sailed On The Mayflower in 1620", written by Ann McGovern and illustrated by Anna DiVito, and, talked about the long, dangerous pilgrimage, as well as, the landing, the decision to settle, and, of course -- new friends -- the Native Americans, who taught the Pilgrims how to hunt for food, grow crops, survival techniques and a great deal more.
Miss Downing showed a(n) historical video clip.
Liz made-up a nice, little Thanksgiving "diddy", and, Mrs. Goell taught us, the following:
The turkey is a funny bird,
Whose head goes wobble, wobble;
The only song that he can sing is,
Gobble, gobble, gobble!!
(Sung to the tune, "Here We Go Round the Mulberry Bush")
Mrs. Dolham had the children make quite special placemats, for tomorrow's feast, and, I have fashioned simple Pilgrim and Native American themed head-bands, and, displayed a "Put the Hat on the Turkey Game -- and -- of course -- Miss Downing has prepared the acting-out of "Stone Soup"!!
Today, I arrived to Kelly reading "Dinofours -- I'm Not Your Friend", written by Stew Metzger and illustrated by Hans Wilhelm, by flashlight -- always great fun -- to our Butterflies and Puppies.
Kelly continues to work on Handwriting Without Tears, with the Butterflies, and, Liz continues to work on the days of the week and months of the year, with the Puppies.
Just before Circle Time, I read "Rosie's Walk", (twice!!), by Pat Hutchins and "Hush Little Alien", (a favorite sing-along!!), by Daniel Kirk.
At our Afternoon Meeting, we admired the photo of a lamb, taken at Drumlin Farm, and, measured our two Amaryllis plants -- approximately 7.5 " and 5 ", respectively.
We had much fun outdoors, and, during Activity Time, climbed on the -- very popular -- wooden structure, built with soft, foam blocks and pretend foods, had quite a lot of fun in the sensory table, as onions and wooden cars have now been added, studied cut-up vegetables, measured "more or less", and, worked on our "All About Me Robots" and with pattern cards -- fine and gross motor, science, math, language arts, art and social and emotional skills were fostered by such a wide array of activities.
In addition to our high-school friends from Lexington and Minuteman Career and Technical High Schools, we welcomed "Miss Maggie", today, who is the mom of three, (two who attended our CDC!!), and, now, studying Early Childhood Education at Middlesex College -- Miss Maggie will be joining us on Mondays -- WELCOME, MISS MAGGIE!!
Kira, Tiana, Andrea and Lainey prepared a very special "Glove Turkey" project, which they will assist the kids with, tomorrow morning -- thank you, Ladies, for all of your hard work!!!!
We trust that you are "wowed" by the school pictures, and, we are very grateful to those of you who have donated items to our "Toys for Tots" center, located in the Cubby Room -- and -- due to the Usborne book orders received thus far, our classroom has earned $100 in free books . . .
So . . . a greatly deserved THANK YOU, THANK YOU!!!!
Lots of Love, Miss Peacock XOXO
Friday, November 20, 2009
"THE MONTH OF NOVEMBER HAS THANKSGIVING DAY . . . "
Dear Friends, Families and Blog-Followers,
Despite the rain, today, our CDC was filled with activity, and, after lunch, the children enjoyed some time outdoors, playing games, with Mrs. Dolham and Miss Sashi, on the deck!!
During Circle, among many other fun things, Liz made two charts, with the Butterflies and Puppies:
For what are we thankful ? (The answers were priceless!!)
What food do we like most? (apples, carrots or corn ?)
Apples -- Gryffin, Tyler Phil and John
Carrots -- Kirsten ( -- & -- corn, too!! )
Corn -- Sheena, Charlotte, Molly, Juliana, Nyah, Orion, Nicky and Kolby
Then, we gathered around our big, curvy art table, and, under Liz's direction, made pictures for placemats to be used at our Thanksgiving Day Feast, (Tuesday)!!
Again, projects were added to the choices offered at Activity Time, such as fingerpainting, as well as, new manipulatives and building toys -- lacing cards were especially enjoyed, today, in tandem with triangular pennants depicting pictures of nutritious foods, cut out, by the kids, during the course of the week.
I have never seen such a fabulous clean-up, as today -- congratulations, all!!!!
At afternoon meeting, we measured our Amaryllises -- (we now have two -- one was a gift from Defne's family) -- they measured six inches and four inches, respectively.
We read a wonderfully heartwarming book, by Dav Pilkey -- "Twas the Night Before Thanksgiving" -- a great turkey rescue!!!!
Please remember that, should you wish to order Usborne books, do see a CDC staff member, and, if you would like to make donations to Toys for Tots, the decorative box is located in the Cubby Room, and to our Thanksgiving Day Feast, (Tuesday), supplies needed are noted on the sign-in and out table.
Enjoy the week-end, everyone!!
Love Miss Peacock XOXO
freshlacemanips
Despite the rain, today, our CDC was filled with activity, and, after lunch, the children enjoyed some time outdoors, playing games, with Mrs. Dolham and Miss Sashi, on the deck!!
During Circle, among many other fun things, Liz made two charts, with the Butterflies and Puppies:
For what are we thankful ? (The answers were priceless!!)
What food do we like most? (apples, carrots or corn ?)
Apples -- Gryffin, Tyler Phil and John
Carrots -- Kirsten ( -- & -- corn, too!! )
Corn -- Sheena, Charlotte, Molly, Juliana, Nyah, Orion, Nicky and Kolby
Then, we gathered around our big, curvy art table, and, under Liz's direction, made pictures for placemats to be used at our Thanksgiving Day Feast, (Tuesday)!!
Again, projects were added to the choices offered at Activity Time, such as fingerpainting, as well as, new manipulatives and building toys -- lacing cards were especially enjoyed, today, in tandem with triangular pennants depicting pictures of nutritious foods, cut out, by the kids, during the course of the week.
I have never seen such a fabulous clean-up, as today -- congratulations, all!!!!
At afternoon meeting, we measured our Amaryllises -- (we now have two -- one was a gift from Defne's family) -- they measured six inches and four inches, respectively.
We read a wonderfully heartwarming book, by Dav Pilkey -- "Twas the Night Before Thanksgiving" -- a great turkey rescue!!!!
Please remember that, should you wish to order Usborne books, do see a CDC staff member, and, if you would like to make donations to Toys for Tots, the decorative box is located in the Cubby Room, and to our Thanksgiving Day Feast, (Tuesday), supplies needed are noted on the sign-in and out table.
Enjoy the week-end, everyone!!
Love Miss Peacock XOXO
freshlacemanips
Thursday, November 19, 2009
"OUR THANKSGIVING DAY FEAST!!"
Dear Families, Friends and Blog Followers,
Today was the last day of the Usborne Book Fair, and -- yes -- Miss Downing, (Director, Teacher and Bus Driver extraordinaire), drove all of us over to Minuteman's Library to attend said and make "wish lists" -- if you have any questions, at all, about ordering Usborne books, please see a CDC staff member -- thank you!!
While at "The Big School", the kids posed for a group photo in front of the "Mustang", which was fashioned by former Welding students, and, and, then, given festive cookies, to be enjoyed for dessert, compliments of the Bakery, for which we were very appreciative!!
we focused, primarily, on the celebration of Thanksgiving Day, today -- please ask your little ones if they remember the story, that Liz shared with us, of the wild turkey, found living on a highway in New Jersey, rescued, and currently residing at a zoo, there, with a (turkey) friend named "Gobbler" !!
We sang Five Little Turkeys, and, re-read Ten Little Turkeys, as well, played with our high school friends, outdoors, and, much, much more!!
Please know that there is a sign-up sheet, on the sign-in and out table, for contributions to our "Thanksgiving Day Feast", which will take place on Tuesday -- please feel free to ask questions, and/or make comments and/or suggestions!!
'GOBBLE GOBBLE!!!!"
Love Miss Peacock XOXO
Today was the last day of the Usborne Book Fair, and -- yes -- Miss Downing, (Director, Teacher and Bus Driver extraordinaire), drove all of us over to Minuteman's Library to attend said and make "wish lists" -- if you have any questions, at all, about ordering Usborne books, please see a CDC staff member -- thank you!!
While at "The Big School", the kids posed for a group photo in front of the "Mustang", which was fashioned by former Welding students, and, and, then, given festive cookies, to be enjoyed for dessert, compliments of the Bakery, for which we were very appreciative!!
we focused, primarily, on the celebration of Thanksgiving Day, today -- please ask your little ones if they remember the story, that Liz shared with us, of the wild turkey, found living on a highway in New Jersey, rescued, and currently residing at a zoo, there, with a (turkey) friend named "Gobbler" !!
We sang Five Little Turkeys, and, re-read Ten Little Turkeys, as well, played with our high school friends, outdoors, and, much, much more!!
Please know that there is a sign-up sheet, on the sign-in and out table, for contributions to our "Thanksgiving Day Feast", which will take place on Tuesday -- please feel free to ask questions, and/or make comments and/or suggestions!!
'GOBBLE GOBBLE!!!!"
Love Miss Peacock XOXO
Wednesday, November 18, 2009
"LITTLE BY LITTLE"
Dear All,
I would like to share a poem used by one of Minuteman's Sophomores in Early Childhood Education, for a seasonal activity presented, to the children, on Friday:
LITTLE BY LITTLE
"Little by little," the acorn said,
As it slowly sank in its mossy bed,
"I am improving every day,
Hidden deep in the earth away."
Little by little each day it grew;
Little by little it sipped the dew;
Downward it sent out a threadlike root;
Up in the air sprung a tiny shoot,
Day after day, and year after year,
Little by little the leaves appear;
And the slender branches spread far and wide,
Till the mighty oak is the forest's pride.
"Little by little," said the thoughtful boy,
"Moment by moment, I'll well employ,
Learning a little every day,
And not misspending my time in play;
Whatever I do I will do it well.
Little by little, I'll learn to know
The treasured wisdom of long ago;
And one of these days, perhaps, will see
That the world will be the better for me."
Do enjoy these years with your children -- the days are long, but, the years are fast . . .
Love Miss Peacock XOXO
I would like to share a poem used by one of Minuteman's Sophomores in Early Childhood Education, for a seasonal activity presented, to the children, on Friday:
LITTLE BY LITTLE
"Little by little," the acorn said,
As it slowly sank in its mossy bed,
"I am improving every day,
Hidden deep in the earth away."
Little by little each day it grew;
Little by little it sipped the dew;
Downward it sent out a threadlike root;
Up in the air sprung a tiny shoot,
Day after day, and year after year,
Little by little the leaves appear;
And the slender branches spread far and wide,
Till the mighty oak is the forest's pride.
"Little by little," said the thoughtful boy,
"Moment by moment, I'll well employ,
Learning a little every day,
And not misspending my time in play;
Whatever I do I will do it well.
Little by little, I'll learn to know
The treasured wisdom of long ago;
And one of these days, perhaps, will see
That the world will be the better for me."
Do enjoy these years with your children -- the days are long, but, the years are fast . . .
Love Miss Peacock XOXO
"ASTRONAUT ICE-CREAM!!"
Dear Families, Friends and Blog Followers,
It is true -- Miss Downing treated all of the children to freeze-dried ice cream, and, during Circle, Mrs. Dolham charted preferences:
Vanilla
Nicky
Strawberry
Nyah, Gryffin and Phil
Chocolate
Kevin, Kirsten, Molly, Juliana, Kolby and Emma (one of our two new friends beginning, soon -- WELCOME!!!!) -- Sheena was "indisposed", at the time -- :).
Our classroom was filled with activity, again, today -- Lexington High School students, our friends from the LABB Program, Mrs. Devlin and more Freshman Explorers, and, "Lolli" -- our neighbor, to whom the kids presented a great big card -- thank you, Butterflies and Puppies, alike!!
We did lots of singing and dancing, and both soft blocks and a seasonal arrangement of books were added-in to the mix at Activity Time.
We did a great deal of reading, today, as well -- stories included, but, were not limited to, "The Shy Scarecrow" authored by Mary Packard and illustrated by Benrei Huang, "The Very Busy Spider" by Eric Carle, "That's Not My Robot", (Usborne), and, many, many more -- as I was at school until after rest time, I heard lots more storytelling done by Mrs. Dolham, Mrs. Goell and Miss Downing, as well.
And, again, we spent quite a bit of time, outdoors!!
The Usborne Book Fair continues, as does the box begin to fill-up with contributions to "Toys for Tots" -- Thank you, one and all!!
Love Miss Peacock XOXO
It is true -- Miss Downing treated all of the children to freeze-dried ice cream, and, during Circle, Mrs. Dolham charted preferences:
Vanilla
Nicky
Strawberry
Nyah, Gryffin and Phil
Chocolate
Kevin, Kirsten, Molly, Juliana, Kolby and Emma (one of our two new friends beginning, soon -- WELCOME!!!!) -- Sheena was "indisposed", at the time -- :).
Our classroom was filled with activity, again, today -- Lexington High School students, our friends from the LABB Program, Mrs. Devlin and more Freshman Explorers, and, "Lolli" -- our neighbor, to whom the kids presented a great big card -- thank you, Butterflies and Puppies, alike!!
We did lots of singing and dancing, and both soft blocks and a seasonal arrangement of books were added-in to the mix at Activity Time.
We did a great deal of reading, today, as well -- stories included, but, were not limited to, "The Shy Scarecrow" authored by Mary Packard and illustrated by Benrei Huang, "The Very Busy Spider" by Eric Carle, "That's Not My Robot", (Usborne), and, many, many more -- as I was at school until after rest time, I heard lots more storytelling done by Mrs. Dolham, Mrs. Goell and Miss Downing, as well.
And, again, we spent quite a bit of time, outdoors!!
The Usborne Book Fair continues, as does the box begin to fill-up with contributions to "Toys for Tots" -- Thank you, one and all!!
Love Miss Peacock XOXO
Tuesday, November 17, 2009
"ANOTHER BUSY DAY!!"
Dear Families, Friends and Blog-Followers,
Today was, yet, another day -- perfect -- for outdoor activity -- we played running games and basketball, climbed in and out of the castle -- well -- the children did . . . and pulled and pushed wagons, galloping like strong Carriage Horses and running like excited Alaskan Huskies!!
Mrs. Dolham found a leaf frozen in ice, and placed it in a bucket, to see if, when the ice melted, the leaf remained as it was -- the ice simply turned back into water, around the leaf, leaving said in one piece.
In addition to singing about the months of the year, days of the week, and much, much more, Liz played a game, with the Butterflies and Puppies, to reinforce the differences between healthy, nutritious foods, and, foods that we should eat only occasionally -- :).
Miss Downing, utilizing technology, (her laptop!!), and, turning teaching into fun, once again, practiced upper and lower case letters, sounds and some sign language, as well, with the group -- we learned how to sign the letters "A", "B" and "C", and the symbols for "mother", "father", "girl" and "boy".
Because of delayed openings at the high schools, this morning, we were unable to trek over to the "Big School", and rather, Mrs. Devlin brought some freshman explorers over to play with the kids, during activity time, while the Usborne Book Fair took place on and off-site -- Kelly placed abbreviated versions of the catalogs in mailboxes and order forms on the sign-in and out table -- there are more all-encompassing catalogs to view, at school, as well as books to peruse -- you may order, on-line, as well -- information is readily available!!
Before Mary Ellen and her charges departed, we all sang "Happy Birthday!!" to Mrs. Devlin and presented her with a lovely gift -- thank you, everyone, for your participation!!
Today, our climbing structure "magically re-appeared", on the hopscotch rug, for climbing -- up, down and all around -- and, was enjoyed by all!!
Tammy, again, brought us joy, via her "good morning" song and the re-telling of "Caps for Sale" -- thank you, Mrs. Goell!!
Please know that there is a large and beautifully decorated box in the Cubby Room, courtesy of Miss Sashi -- who -- is planning to read "Pancakes for Supper" , tommorow, and make said, for afternoon snack -- dedicated to collecting "Toys for Tots" -- all contributions are welcome -- items for teenagers are especially needed -- thank you, all, in advance, for your generosity.
Love Miss Peacock XOXO
Today was, yet, another day -- perfect -- for outdoor activity -- we played running games and basketball, climbed in and out of the castle -- well -- the children did . . . and pulled and pushed wagons, galloping like strong Carriage Horses and running like excited Alaskan Huskies!!
Mrs. Dolham found a leaf frozen in ice, and placed it in a bucket, to see if, when the ice melted, the leaf remained as it was -- the ice simply turned back into water, around the leaf, leaving said in one piece.
In addition to singing about the months of the year, days of the week, and much, much more, Liz played a game, with the Butterflies and Puppies, to reinforce the differences between healthy, nutritious foods, and, foods that we should eat only occasionally -- :).
Miss Downing, utilizing technology, (her laptop!!), and, turning teaching into fun, once again, practiced upper and lower case letters, sounds and some sign language, as well, with the group -- we learned how to sign the letters "A", "B" and "C", and the symbols for "mother", "father", "girl" and "boy".
Because of delayed openings at the high schools, this morning, we were unable to trek over to the "Big School", and rather, Mrs. Devlin brought some freshman explorers over to play with the kids, during activity time, while the Usborne Book Fair took place on and off-site -- Kelly placed abbreviated versions of the catalogs in mailboxes and order forms on the sign-in and out table -- there are more all-encompassing catalogs to view, at school, as well as books to peruse -- you may order, on-line, as well -- information is readily available!!
Before Mary Ellen and her charges departed, we all sang "Happy Birthday!!" to Mrs. Devlin and presented her with a lovely gift -- thank you, everyone, for your participation!!
Today, our climbing structure "magically re-appeared", on the hopscotch rug, for climbing -- up, down and all around -- and, was enjoyed by all!!
Tammy, again, brought us joy, via her "good morning" song and the re-telling of "Caps for Sale" -- thank you, Mrs. Goell!!
Please know that there is a large and beautifully decorated box in the Cubby Room, courtesy of Miss Sashi -- who -- is planning to read "Pancakes for Supper" , tommorow, and make said, for afternoon snack -- dedicated to collecting "Toys for Tots" -- all contributions are welcome -- items for teenagers are especially needed -- thank you, all, in advance, for your generosity.
Love Miss Peacock XOXO
Annual Usborne Book Fair, Today!!!!
Please remember Usborne books -- there are always expanded categories from which to choose, and, all of its books are real treasures and stellar gifts -- enjoy!!!! XOXO.
Monday, November 16, 2009
"LET'S GO BANANAS!!"
Dear Friends, Families and Blog Followers,
Good evening!!
Today, we focused, mainly, on practicing skill sets and healthy eating -- in fact -- thanks to Mrs. Dolham and Miss Downing, the children combined the themes of outer space and healthy eating by stuffing celery sticks with cream cheese and adding raisins -- "astronauts on rockets!!"
And, during Circle, Liz created a chart by having each of the kids name and draw a nutritious food:
Bananas -- Sheena, Nick, John and Nyah
Yogurt -- Orion, Gryffin and Molly
Apples -- Kirsten and Noy
Carrots -- Kevin
Lemons -- Phil
Chicken -- Ellie
Liz and I have continued, during Circle, to review the calendar and sing the November Song, among other things, with the Puppies, while Kelly works on Handwriting Without Tears, (HWT), with the Butterflies.
During Activity Time, the kids had opportunities to cut and lace, build and utilize manipulatives, all of which encourage the use of motor, especially, fine motor, skills.
As well, while "The Diary of a Worm" played, our Butterflies and Puppies played in the sensory table, which was filled with dirt, small pails of water and vegetables.
At Afternoon Meeting, we measured our Amaryllis, now five inches tall, and, still growing (!!) -- and -- read "The Lonely Scarecrow" written by Tim Preston and illustrated by Maggie Kneen, after which I asked each child his or her favorite season, and, why:
Winter -- Orion, Molly, Kirsten, Nyah, Gryffin and Kevin
(Getting on all of their snow gear, (?!), playing in the snow, sledding, building snowmen and making snowballs!!)
Fall/Autumn -- Ellie, Nick and Phil
(Foliage trips and Halloween!!)
Summer -- Sheena and Noy
(More time to play outdoors!!)
Many of our little friends brought in books, from home, today, which is highly encouraged, and the teachers, high-school students and youngsters had a grand time reading a variety of stories!!
Outdoors, we practiced and reinforced gross motor skills by running, climbing, riding, etc., and, playing a great deal of soccer and basketball, during which time, Orion called-out, "I got a rebound!!"
Please remember that the Usborne Book Fair takes place on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday, and, that, we will be travelling over to the "Big School" and making-out "wish lists", for the children, (and ourselves!!).
Next Wednesday, we plan to act out "Stone Soup", which has become a Thanksgiving tradition at our Child Development Center.
Have a wonderful night, and, we all look very forward to tomorrow, and the beginning of the annual Book Fair!!
Love Miss Peacock XOXO
Good evening!!
Today, we focused, mainly, on practicing skill sets and healthy eating -- in fact -- thanks to Mrs. Dolham and Miss Downing, the children combined the themes of outer space and healthy eating by stuffing celery sticks with cream cheese and adding raisins -- "astronauts on rockets!!"
And, during Circle, Liz created a chart by having each of the kids name and draw a nutritious food:
Bananas -- Sheena, Nick, John and Nyah
Yogurt -- Orion, Gryffin and Molly
Apples -- Kirsten and Noy
Carrots -- Kevin
Lemons -- Phil
Chicken -- Ellie
Liz and I have continued, during Circle, to review the calendar and sing the November Song, among other things, with the Puppies, while Kelly works on Handwriting Without Tears, (HWT), with the Butterflies.
During Activity Time, the kids had opportunities to cut and lace, build and utilize manipulatives, all of which encourage the use of motor, especially, fine motor, skills.
As well, while "The Diary of a Worm" played, our Butterflies and Puppies played in the sensory table, which was filled with dirt, small pails of water and vegetables.
At Afternoon Meeting, we measured our Amaryllis, now five inches tall, and, still growing (!!) -- and -- read "The Lonely Scarecrow" written by Tim Preston and illustrated by Maggie Kneen, after which I asked each child his or her favorite season, and, why:
Winter -- Orion, Molly, Kirsten, Nyah, Gryffin and Kevin
(Getting on all of their snow gear, (?!), playing in the snow, sledding, building snowmen and making snowballs!!)
Fall/Autumn -- Ellie, Nick and Phil
(Foliage trips and Halloween!!)
Summer -- Sheena and Noy
(More time to play outdoors!!)
Many of our little friends brought in books, from home, today, which is highly encouraged, and the teachers, high-school students and youngsters had a grand time reading a variety of stories!!
Outdoors, we practiced and reinforced gross motor skills by running, climbing, riding, etc., and, playing a great deal of soccer and basketball, during which time, Orion called-out, "I got a rebound!!"
Please remember that the Usborne Book Fair takes place on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday, and, that, we will be travelling over to the "Big School" and making-out "wish lists", for the children, (and ourselves!!).
Next Wednesday, we plan to act out "Stone Soup", which has become a Thanksgiving tradition at our Child Development Center.
Have a wonderful night, and, we all look very forward to tomorrow, and the beginning of the annual Book Fair!!
Love Miss Peacock XOXO
Saturday, November 14, 2009
"I LOVE A RAINY NIGHT"
Good Evening, Friends,
I understand that Thursday was another fun-filled day at the CDC.
And, Friday marked the last day of school for our beloved Defne -- we wish her family all the joys of a successful new venture -- many thanks to Kelly, who made a fabulous DVD, and, many thanks to Liz, who fashioned a beautiful portfolio, out of the photos that we had taken, so far, this year, for Defne's family.
A lovely tea party was planned, at which the children decorated tea cups and enjoyed rainbow chip muffins and frozen yogurt -- thank you, Ayse, (Defne's Mom) !!
We made up a song at afternoon meeting and presented Defne with gifts -- tears were shed, and, all were very gracious, indeed -- "BOO HOO" . . .
We measured our Amaryllis, which grew to 3 3/4 inches -- almost a full inch in less than a week -- its ability to grow, very quickly, makes it among the favorite planting activities.
We have continued to read books by Laura Numeroff and Felicia Bond, and, yesterday, I brought in "The Pig" from "If You Give A Pig A Pancake", for all to hold, and, hung the completed outer-space themed ornaments on our celebratory tree.
Mrs. Dolham read the Crunching Munching Caterpillar, of which Jack "Tickle" was the illustrator, and I read Ten Fat Turkeys written by Tony Johnston and illustrated by Rick Deas.
We have continued to host many visitors, from the surrounding schools, and, each and every one of them has made multiple and wonderful contributions -- our neighbor, "Lolli", stopped by, on Fri., as well -- thank you, all!!
Our high-schoolers from Minuteman's Career and Technical High School planned many festive activities for the Butterflies and Puppies, yesterday, including, but not limited to, a tagboard turkey, with leaves noting for what our children are thankful, (already displayed), differently-styled paper acorn collages, fingerprint turkey paintings, foam turkey door hangers and a deliciously-smelling pumpkin pie craft -- thank you, Haley, Victoria, Amanda, Bri, Christina, Crystal, Elise, Mikayla and Andrea, as well as Mrs. Devlin, and all those involved in bringing great joy to our little ones!!
Please enjoy the remainder of the week-end!!
With lots of love -- Miss Peacock XOXO
I understand that Thursday was another fun-filled day at the CDC.
And, Friday marked the last day of school for our beloved Defne -- we wish her family all the joys of a successful new venture -- many thanks to Kelly, who made a fabulous DVD, and, many thanks to Liz, who fashioned a beautiful portfolio, out of the photos that we had taken, so far, this year, for Defne's family.
A lovely tea party was planned, at which the children decorated tea cups and enjoyed rainbow chip muffins and frozen yogurt -- thank you, Ayse, (Defne's Mom) !!
We made up a song at afternoon meeting and presented Defne with gifts -- tears were shed, and, all were very gracious, indeed -- "BOO HOO" . . .
We measured our Amaryllis, which grew to 3 3/4 inches -- almost a full inch in less than a week -- its ability to grow, very quickly, makes it among the favorite planting activities.
We have continued to read books by Laura Numeroff and Felicia Bond, and, yesterday, I brought in "The Pig" from "If You Give A Pig A Pancake", for all to hold, and, hung the completed outer-space themed ornaments on our celebratory tree.
Mrs. Dolham read the Crunching Munching Caterpillar, of which Jack "Tickle" was the illustrator, and I read Ten Fat Turkeys written by Tony Johnston and illustrated by Rick Deas.
We have continued to host many visitors, from the surrounding schools, and, each and every one of them has made multiple and wonderful contributions -- our neighbor, "Lolli", stopped by, on Fri., as well -- thank you, all!!
Our high-schoolers from Minuteman's Career and Technical High School planned many festive activities for the Butterflies and Puppies, yesterday, including, but not limited to, a tagboard turkey, with leaves noting for what our children are thankful, (already displayed), differently-styled paper acorn collages, fingerprint turkey paintings, foam turkey door hangers and a deliciously-smelling pumpkin pie craft -- thank you, Haley, Victoria, Amanda, Bri, Christina, Crystal, Elise, Mikayla and Andrea, as well as Mrs. Devlin, and all those involved in bringing great joy to our little ones!!
Please enjoy the remainder of the week-end!!
With lots of love -- Miss Peacock XOXO
Tuesday, November 10, 2009
"WHERE WOULD YOUR ROCKET TAKE YOU?"
Dear Friends, Families and Blog-Followers,
Good evening!!
For the past two days, we have been working on lots of new theme-related projects, begun measuring the growth of our amaryllis, (three inches as of Monday), and spent plenty of time, outdoors.
New outer space-related activities include making paper mache "planets", "space crafts" from recycleables -- reduce, re-use-recycle -- , tree ornaments using "rocket", "helmet" and "Saturn" cut-outs, (with a language component), "All About Me" Robot posters, and drawings depicting day and night.
Guided by many of our high-schoolers and older friends, the children "walked the Moon's surface", (sponges, pillows and blankets), played a "solar system" question and answer game and visited many of our learning centers -- the kids, wearing oxygen tanks made out of two-liter plastic bottles and colored duct tape -- are especially enjoying the rocket ship, located in the dramatic play area.
With visuals provided by the laptop and music supplied by both Amy and technology (:)), we have been partying in our own little "world"!!
Because the weather has been delightful, we have noticed many insects, outdoors, taken an investigative walk, with Mrs. Dolham, and filled ghost-patterned bags, with leaves, for use as yard decorations.
I showed the Butterflies and Puppies a glass bottle, filled with part water, part vegetable oil, food coloring and foil balls, which looked like planets floating in space -- and -- thanks to Miss Downing, the book area has been moved, closer to the piano, and a "quiet space" fashioned out of wood, has been added -- (the chocolate chip cookies were actually made for our friends from the Maintenance Department, who have continued to help us with building projects, both big and small -- thank you!!)
We have been dancing and singing, ("Joe and the Button Factory", "Tooty Ta", "Hokey Pokey" and "Johnny Uses One Hammer"), for example, and, of course, reading books!!
Mrs. Goell read "What a Wonderful World" written by George David Weiss and Bob Thiele and illustrated by Ashley Bryan and "Little Cloud Little Cloud" by Eric Carle and re-introduced "The Parade of Colors", to the group.
Liz read "When the Fly Flew In" authored by Lisa Westberg Peters with pictures by Brad Sneed and I read, accompanied by a plush moose, "If You Give a Moose a Muffin" -- I am planning to read several of Laura Numeroff's and Felicia Bond's books, this week, with friends, "the mouse", "the pig" and "the cat"!!
And, very importantly, a "Very Happy Birthday" to Mary Ellen Devlin!!
May you all have an enjoyable and safe day, tomorrow, and we all look forward to seeing you on Thursday morning!! :)
Lots of Love, Miss Peacock XOXO :) :)
Good evening!!
For the past two days, we have been working on lots of new theme-related projects, begun measuring the growth of our amaryllis, (three inches as of Monday), and spent plenty of time, outdoors.
New outer space-related activities include making paper mache "planets", "space crafts" from recycleables -- reduce, re-use-recycle -- , tree ornaments using "rocket", "helmet" and "Saturn" cut-outs, (with a language component), "All About Me" Robot posters, and drawings depicting day and night.
Guided by many of our high-schoolers and older friends, the children "walked the Moon's surface", (sponges, pillows and blankets), played a "solar system" question and answer game and visited many of our learning centers -- the kids, wearing oxygen tanks made out of two-liter plastic bottles and colored duct tape -- are especially enjoying the rocket ship, located in the dramatic play area.
With visuals provided by the laptop and music supplied by both Amy and technology (:)), we have been partying in our own little "world"!!
Because the weather has been delightful, we have noticed many insects, outdoors, taken an investigative walk, with Mrs. Dolham, and filled ghost-patterned bags, with leaves, for use as yard decorations.
I showed the Butterflies and Puppies a glass bottle, filled with part water, part vegetable oil, food coloring and foil balls, which looked like planets floating in space -- and -- thanks to Miss Downing, the book area has been moved, closer to the piano, and a "quiet space" fashioned out of wood, has been added -- (the chocolate chip cookies were actually made for our friends from the Maintenance Department, who have continued to help us with building projects, both big and small -- thank you!!)
We have been dancing and singing, ("Joe and the Button Factory", "Tooty Ta", "Hokey Pokey" and "Johnny Uses One Hammer"), for example, and, of course, reading books!!
Mrs. Goell read "What a Wonderful World" written by George David Weiss and Bob Thiele and illustrated by Ashley Bryan and "Little Cloud Little Cloud" by Eric Carle and re-introduced "The Parade of Colors", to the group.
Liz read "When the Fly Flew In" authored by Lisa Westberg Peters with pictures by Brad Sneed and I read, accompanied by a plush moose, "If You Give a Moose a Muffin" -- I am planning to read several of Laura Numeroff's and Felicia Bond's books, this week, with friends, "the mouse", "the pig" and "the cat"!!
And, very importantly, a "Very Happy Birthday" to Mary Ellen Devlin!!
May you all have an enjoyable and safe day, tomorrow, and we all look forward to seeing you on Thursday morning!! :)
Lots of Love, Miss Peacock XOXO :) :)
Sunday, November 8, 2009
A WARM SUNDAY AFTERNOON
Dear All,
I do hope that you have enjoyed the week-end thus far -- what a glorious day, indeed!!
On Friday, the children continued viewing interesting shuttle lift-offs and rocket launches and had the opportunity to perform "five little spacemen", while practicing colors and counting spacemen, as there is now a visual aid, thanks to our high school friends, as aforementioned.
Amy (MM Post-Grad) planned and guided a mask-making project, with the children, and Sophie (MM C&THS) set-up an enriching activity time -- additionally -- Sarah (Wayland High) and Olivia, Kelly and Arianne (Lexington High) created and laminated wonderful new signage for our school -- thank you, ladies!!
The Butterflies are working diligently, with Miss Downing, on Handwriting Without Tears, now accompanied by manipulatives and music.
At afternoon meeting, I read "Leafman" (again!!) by Lois Ehlert, around which we are planning an (outdoor) art project, and, as I was leaving, Kelly was busy making chocolate chip cookies, for a special treat.
Please be reminded of a mid-week holiday and that, our much-loved Defne, will soon be moving to Washington, D.C., with her family . . . we are preparing a tea party, thanks to Kelly, for Defne, this week.
We look very forward to seeing you, all, again, beginning tomorrow!!
Love Miss Peacock XOXO
I do hope that you have enjoyed the week-end thus far -- what a glorious day, indeed!!
On Friday, the children continued viewing interesting shuttle lift-offs and rocket launches and had the opportunity to perform "five little spacemen", while practicing colors and counting spacemen, as there is now a visual aid, thanks to our high school friends, as aforementioned.
Amy (MM Post-Grad) planned and guided a mask-making project, with the children, and Sophie (MM C&THS) set-up an enriching activity time -- additionally -- Sarah (Wayland High) and Olivia, Kelly and Arianne (Lexington High) created and laminated wonderful new signage for our school -- thank you, ladies!!
The Butterflies are working diligently, with Miss Downing, on Handwriting Without Tears, now accompanied by manipulatives and music.
At afternoon meeting, I read "Leafman" (again!!) by Lois Ehlert, around which we are planning an (outdoor) art project, and, as I was leaving, Kelly was busy making chocolate chip cookies, for a special treat.
Please be reminded of a mid-week holiday and that, our much-loved Defne, will soon be moving to Washington, D.C., with her family . . . we are preparing a tea party, thanks to Kelly, for Defne, this week.
We look very forward to seeing you, all, again, beginning tomorrow!!
Love Miss Peacock XOXO
Friday, November 6, 2009
CHILLY NOVEMBER DAYS
Dear Families, Friends and Blog-Followers,
Hopefully, you will notice several additions to our classroom decor, as of yesterday, (Thursday) -- Thanks to Mrs. Dolham and Miss Downing, and, of course, the Butterflies and Puppies, our life size family tree is displayed on the wall abutting the deck -- it has been decorated with the "leaves" that Liz has received, so far, as well as an endearing collection of forest animals!!
As well, our high school friends from both Minuteman's and Lexington's programs, especially Sophie (Minuteman) and Sarah (Lexington), crafted a poster titled, as is the song and fingerplay, "Five Little Spacemen", for display during Circle-Time!!
And, Liz and Sophie put together, beautifully, the rocket ship that the children painted, outdoors -- it is, now, located in the dramatic play area!!
As well, and with many thanks to Kelly, we now have additional shelving for our plethora of books and supplies!!
Kelly discovered that the "Orion" (!!) crew is gearing up for a state of the art space project -- the goal, for landing, is to make a smooth entry via runway, versus water, so that the crew can actually "walk out" onto solid ground.
Miss Downing dove headfirst into "Handwriting Without Tears", today, with the Butterflies, after which they joined us, outdoors.
Kelly practiced the concept of "left" and "right" with all of the children and had them doing somersaults on a gymnast's mat -- Even Ellie's "Poppy" joined in the fun!!
We had more Freshman Explorers over for a visit, along with Mrs. Devlin.
Among the books read, were, "Pajama Time" (again!!) by Sandra Boynton and "Chicken Soup with Rice" (a book of months) by Maurice Sendak.
As aforementioned, I will be submitting any Scholastic Book Orders, and have extended the submission date to today -- if you are interested, I will provide instructions to order on-line, which will allow families, and the Child Development Center, to receive additional, free books!!
Have a stellar day and a glorious week-end!!
Love Miss Peacock XOXO
Hopefully, you will notice several additions to our classroom decor, as of yesterday, (Thursday) -- Thanks to Mrs. Dolham and Miss Downing, and, of course, the Butterflies and Puppies, our life size family tree is displayed on the wall abutting the deck -- it has been decorated with the "leaves" that Liz has received, so far, as well as an endearing collection of forest animals!!
As well, our high school friends from both Minuteman's and Lexington's programs, especially Sophie (Minuteman) and Sarah (Lexington), crafted a poster titled, as is the song and fingerplay, "Five Little Spacemen", for display during Circle-Time!!
And, Liz and Sophie put together, beautifully, the rocket ship that the children painted, outdoors -- it is, now, located in the dramatic play area!!
As well, and with many thanks to Kelly, we now have additional shelving for our plethora of books and supplies!!
Kelly discovered that the "Orion" (!!) crew is gearing up for a state of the art space project -- the goal, for landing, is to make a smooth entry via runway, versus water, so that the crew can actually "walk out" onto solid ground.
Miss Downing dove headfirst into "Handwriting Without Tears", today, with the Butterflies, after which they joined us, outdoors.
Kelly practiced the concept of "left" and "right" with all of the children and had them doing somersaults on a gymnast's mat -- Even Ellie's "Poppy" joined in the fun!!
We had more Freshman Explorers over for a visit, along with Mrs. Devlin.
Among the books read, were, "Pajama Time" (again!!) by Sandra Boynton and "Chicken Soup with Rice" (a book of months) by Maurice Sendak.
As aforementioned, I will be submitting any Scholastic Book Orders, and have extended the submission date to today -- if you are interested, I will provide instructions to order on-line, which will allow families, and the Child Development Center, to receive additional, free books!!
Have a stellar day and a glorious week-end!!
Love Miss Peacock XOXO
Wednesday, November 4, 2009
"WHAT DO WE KNOW ABOUT THE MOON?"
Dear Friends, Families and Blog-Followers,
Today, we were, again, joined by several of our high-school friends, and, later, by Alana, as well, and answered many questions about travel in outer space, in general, and the moon, in particular.
For example, it takes four days to travel from the earth to the moon -- in a FAST aircraft -- and, during the trip, when the fuel has been depleted, the tanks are released -- some crafts land on runways, while others splash down in seas and oceans.
The moon is full of peaks and valleys, and, large holes, called "craters", and it sustains no life -- it is very still -- there exists no wind, so, that the buggy, Flag, and, even, footsteps, have been left behind.
As in the water, bodies are buoyant, and, the earth looks as small from the moon as does the moon from the earth!!
There is nothing to breathe, so space travellers must "suit-up", as noted, below.
During Circle, Miss Downing led us all in drawing "Matman" as an astronaut, and asked the children what he would need for a safe trip -- based on their answers, Kelly added a space-suit, boots and gloves, a helmet, air/oxygen tanks, rope, and, of course, space-dried ice cream?!
Both Miss Downing and Mrs. Dolham have been leading our little friends in lots of theme-related role-playing, games and songs.
Today, we read both non-fictional and fictional theme-related stories, such as, "On the Moon" (Usborne) written by Anna Milbourne, illustrated by Benji Davis and designed by Laura Fearn, "That's Not My Robot" (Usborne) written by Fiona Walt and illustrated by Rachel Wells, "Zoom, Zoom, Zoom, I'm Off to the Moon" by Dan Yaccarino and "How to Trick or Treat in Outer Space" written by Kathleen Krull and illustrated by Paul Brewer.
The kids enjoyed squeezing my "alien" looking pen, as its pliable brain expanded -- (excellent for fine motor skill development -- really!!)
And, some other books of interest, and read to the Butterflies and Puppies, included, "How do Dinosaurs say Good-night" by Jane Yolen (an author from western Massachusetts) and Mark Teague and "Smiley Shark" by Ruth Galloway.
Kolby was very warmly welcomed by Butterflies and Puppies, alike -- today -- his first official day -- congratulations, everyone!!
Love Miss Peacock XOXO
Today, we were, again, joined by several of our high-school friends, and, later, by Alana, as well, and answered many questions about travel in outer space, in general, and the moon, in particular.
For example, it takes four days to travel from the earth to the moon -- in a FAST aircraft -- and, during the trip, when the fuel has been depleted, the tanks are released -- some crafts land on runways, while others splash down in seas and oceans.
The moon is full of peaks and valleys, and, large holes, called "craters", and it sustains no life -- it is very still -- there exists no wind, so, that the buggy, Flag, and, even, footsteps, have been left behind.
As in the water, bodies are buoyant, and, the earth looks as small from the moon as does the moon from the earth!!
There is nothing to breathe, so space travellers must "suit-up", as noted, below.
During Circle, Miss Downing led us all in drawing "Matman" as an astronaut, and asked the children what he would need for a safe trip -- based on their answers, Kelly added a space-suit, boots and gloves, a helmet, air/oxygen tanks, rope, and, of course, space-dried ice cream?!
Both Miss Downing and Mrs. Dolham have been leading our little friends in lots of theme-related role-playing, games and songs.
Today, we read both non-fictional and fictional theme-related stories, such as, "On the Moon" (Usborne) written by Anna Milbourne, illustrated by Benji Davis and designed by Laura Fearn, "That's Not My Robot" (Usborne) written by Fiona Walt and illustrated by Rachel Wells, "Zoom, Zoom, Zoom, I'm Off to the Moon" by Dan Yaccarino and "How to Trick or Treat in Outer Space" written by Kathleen Krull and illustrated by Paul Brewer.
The kids enjoyed squeezing my "alien" looking pen, as its pliable brain expanded -- (excellent for fine motor skill development -- really!!)
And, some other books of interest, and read to the Butterflies and Puppies, included, "How do Dinosaurs say Good-night" by Jane Yolen (an author from western Massachusetts) and Mark Teague and "Smiley Shark" by Ruth Galloway.
Kolby was very warmly welcomed by Butterflies and Puppies, alike -- today -- his first official day -- congratulations, everyone!!
Love Miss Peacock XOXO
Scholastic Book Order and Usborne Book Fair
Please know that Scholastic Book Orders are due tomorrow -- I would like to submit said, as soon as possible, so that everything arrives in plenty of time, for holiday reading and gift giving, and, that the Usborne Book Fair is scheduled for November 17 - 19 -- details to follow -- thank you!! :)
"Our New Friend!!"
Good Morning, All,
Our new friend, Kolby, whom we met yesterday, is joining us, for his first day, today, as a Puppy -- Welcome, Kolby!!
And, please check-out our front porch, beautifully decorated for the season, with our fancy-schmancy pumpkins and stuffed scarecrows -- thank you, Kelly!!
Yesterday, (Tuesday), we talked more about space exploration, accompanied by new video clips, thanks, as well, to Miss Downing!!
We read several stories about outer space, and, added a couple of new activities, after coming in from outdoors, including soil and vegetables in the sensory table, and themed keyboarding -- as well as entertainment -- our own Miss Amy, on the piano, playing the theme from "Star Wars"(!!) -- and much, much more!!
We have had surprise visits from some of our Freshman "explorers", and other special friends, expertly guided by Mary Ellen Devlin -- thank you for visiting!!
Tammy read "Today is Monday", later accompanied by the song, by Eric Carle, as well, which the children really enjoyed.
After lunch, we planted what was left of our pumpkin seeds, outdoors.
Miss Downing is planning a field-trip to "Super Stop & Shop", in Lexington, to look at nutritious foods, and purchase ingredients, in order for the children to make a healthy food, at school -- more information is forthcoming.
Please know that Midland Fundraising materials, as well as Reading Challenge certificates, are in mailboxes -- and -- Liz anxiously awaits your "leaves" -- thank you!!
We will soon be re-decorating our tree to display ornamentation reflecting the Outer Space theme, making "All About Me" Robot posters, baking pumpkin cakes, etc.
We are gearing-up for, yet, another month of learning and fun, at Minuteman's Child Development Center!!
Love Miss Peacock XOXO
Our new friend, Kolby, whom we met yesterday, is joining us, for his first day, today, as a Puppy -- Welcome, Kolby!!
And, please check-out our front porch, beautifully decorated for the season, with our fancy-schmancy pumpkins and stuffed scarecrows -- thank you, Kelly!!
Yesterday, (Tuesday), we talked more about space exploration, accompanied by new video clips, thanks, as well, to Miss Downing!!
We read several stories about outer space, and, added a couple of new activities, after coming in from outdoors, including soil and vegetables in the sensory table, and themed keyboarding -- as well as entertainment -- our own Miss Amy, on the piano, playing the theme from "Star Wars"(!!) -- and much, much more!!
We have had surprise visits from some of our Freshman "explorers", and other special friends, expertly guided by Mary Ellen Devlin -- thank you for visiting!!
Tammy read "Today is Monday", later accompanied by the song, by Eric Carle, as well, which the children really enjoyed.
After lunch, we planted what was left of our pumpkin seeds, outdoors.
Miss Downing is planning a field-trip to "Super Stop & Shop", in Lexington, to look at nutritious foods, and purchase ingredients, in order for the children to make a healthy food, at school -- more information is forthcoming.
Please know that Midland Fundraising materials, as well as Reading Challenge certificates, are in mailboxes -- and -- Liz anxiously awaits your "leaves" -- thank you!!
We will soon be re-decorating our tree to display ornamentation reflecting the Outer Space theme, making "All About Me" Robot posters, baking pumpkin cakes, etc.
We are gearing-up for, yet, another month of learning and fun, at Minuteman's Child Development Center!!
Love Miss Peacock XOXO
Monday, November 2, 2009
"ONE, TWO, THREE, BLASTOFF!!"
Good Afternoon, All,
Today was the first day of a new theme, Outer Space, a favorite of students and teachers, alike!!
After practicing our "November Song", (lyrics in mailboxes -- thank you!!), talking about Thanksgiving and reviewing the calendar, with Mrs. Dolham, and, doing a themed finger play and watching a space shuttle launch with Miss Downing, the children went outdoors to paint boxes, that will, soon, become rocket ships!!
Our Butterflies and Puppies discovered a wonderfully big pile of leaves with which they had great fun, as well.
Several of our older friends, from LHS, are visiting us, in the mornings, while, Sophie, one of our many friends from the "Big School", remains throughout activitiy time.
With photographs of planets and stars, strewn about, the kids diligently began creating their "Space Journals" and used magic slates, colored pencils and yellow chaulk to draw the universe, constellations of stars and "aliens" -- here, the focus was on fine motor skills and the use of imagination.
In the block area, some children built space ships, while, on the hopscotch rug, others enjoyed an outer-space themed bean-bag game.
Our "spooky farm stand" will probably become less frightening, soon, and, continues to encourage the practice of buying and selling -- this morning, especially, it was quite busy, along with the "restaurant", which was set-up in the dramatic play area.
The concept of "space" inspires wonderful conversations about what we know of life beyond the earth and what questions remain unanswered -- this month -- the curriculum will assist the kids in obtaining answers to said, in tandem with exploration and discovery.
At our second meeting of the day, I read "Roaring Rockets", authored by Tony Mitton and Ant Parker, and asked each child, what, so far, was his/her favorite point of interest about outer space:
Noy, Nyah and Defne were most excited about seeing the rocket ship, (in the story), land, splash and float in the cold water.
Nick envisioned travelling into outer space, while Phil seemed to want his Mommy along for the ride . . .
John told quite a detailed story about the take-off, travel and landing of a rocket ship, and, Molly imagined a "pink rocket (decorated) with butterflies and flowers, with lots of 'remotes' and a TV, and a kitty lost in space" -- (Go, Molly!! :))
Ellie seemed interested in the talk of space, in general, while Sheena and Orion, (how appropriate a name!!), were ready to "take-off" for lunch!!
In addition, we read books, including "Zoom, Zoom, Zoom", by Dan Yaccarino, and listened to music related to our new theme, as well.
Our Amaryllis is growing, while our apple seeds continue to sprout, in preparation for re-planting.
Sprint and Buddy are wonderful class pets, whose favorite foods are whole grapes, (really!!), carrots and lettuce -- Sprint has the most fun annoying Buddy and falling in and out of the water bowl . . .
The teachers will focus on nutrition, moreso, during the second half of November.
Please enjoy the evening, and, we look forward to seeing many of you, tomorrow!!
Love Miss Peacock XOXO
(Oh -- PS -- Please remember to decorate and return the leaves for our family trees -- what Liz has received, so far, is truly "stellar" work -- thank you!! :))
Today was the first day of a new theme, Outer Space, a favorite of students and teachers, alike!!
After practicing our "November Song", (lyrics in mailboxes -- thank you!!), talking about Thanksgiving and reviewing the calendar, with Mrs. Dolham, and, doing a themed finger play and watching a space shuttle launch with Miss Downing, the children went outdoors to paint boxes, that will, soon, become rocket ships!!
Our Butterflies and Puppies discovered a wonderfully big pile of leaves with which they had great fun, as well.
Several of our older friends, from LHS, are visiting us, in the mornings, while, Sophie, one of our many friends from the "Big School", remains throughout activitiy time.
With photographs of planets and stars, strewn about, the kids diligently began creating their "Space Journals" and used magic slates, colored pencils and yellow chaulk to draw the universe, constellations of stars and "aliens" -- here, the focus was on fine motor skills and the use of imagination.
In the block area, some children built space ships, while, on the hopscotch rug, others enjoyed an outer-space themed bean-bag game.
Our "spooky farm stand" will probably become less frightening, soon, and, continues to encourage the practice of buying and selling -- this morning, especially, it was quite busy, along with the "restaurant", which was set-up in the dramatic play area.
The concept of "space" inspires wonderful conversations about what we know of life beyond the earth and what questions remain unanswered -- this month -- the curriculum will assist the kids in obtaining answers to said, in tandem with exploration and discovery.
At our second meeting of the day, I read "Roaring Rockets", authored by Tony Mitton and Ant Parker, and asked each child, what, so far, was his/her favorite point of interest about outer space:
Noy, Nyah and Defne were most excited about seeing the rocket ship, (in the story), land, splash and float in the cold water.
Nick envisioned travelling into outer space, while Phil seemed to want his Mommy along for the ride . . .
John told quite a detailed story about the take-off, travel and landing of a rocket ship, and, Molly imagined a "pink rocket (decorated) with butterflies and flowers, with lots of 'remotes' and a TV, and a kitty lost in space" -- (Go, Molly!! :))
Ellie seemed interested in the talk of space, in general, while Sheena and Orion, (how appropriate a name!!), were ready to "take-off" for lunch!!
In addition, we read books, including "Zoom, Zoom, Zoom", by Dan Yaccarino, and listened to music related to our new theme, as well.
Our Amaryllis is growing, while our apple seeds continue to sprout, in preparation for re-planting.
Sprint and Buddy are wonderful class pets, whose favorite foods are whole grapes, (really!!), carrots and lettuce -- Sprint has the most fun annoying Buddy and falling in and out of the water bowl . . .
The teachers will focus on nutrition, moreso, during the second half of November.
Please enjoy the evening, and, we look forward to seeing many of you, tomorrow!!
Love Miss Peacock XOXO
(Oh -- PS -- Please remember to decorate and return the leaves for our family trees -- what Liz has received, so far, is truly "stellar" work -- thank you!! :))
P.S.!!
Dear All -- Thank you, Debbie Dew, (Kirsten's Mom), for the delicious treats, and, for the contributions of all, to a festive Halloween celebration -- please know that Fawn Rosenberg will be accepting candy, for buy-back, and, shipping, overseas, to our troops, today, as well -- Enjoy!! Love Maria XOXO
Sunday, November 1, 2009
HALLOWEEN CANDY BUY BACK!!!!
Good Morning, Everyone!!!!
As you very likely know, Friday was a day filled with fun -- our Halloween Parade was a great success -- and -- Kelly looked quite ravishing as a "gothicy princessy witch" behind the wheel of the bus -- our tour took us by the bakery for cookies, lots of "ooohs" and "aaahs" and many photos!!!!
I trust that last night was one of the best ever -- the warm air, gently blowing leaves and quick-moving cloud-cover made for a beautiful, yet "eerie", feel to the evening . . .
Please know that there is a "candy buy-back", today, (Sunday), at the office of Dr. Fawn Rosenberg, (dentist), between approximately 12:00 and 03:00 -- her office is located at 922 Waltham Street in Lexington, and her phone number is 781-861-6008 -- Fawn will donate the candy to our troops, overseas -- Fawn was responsible, as well, for the Unicef boxes distributed, at school, and may be collecting any proceeds -- thank you, and do enjoy the rest of the week-end!!
Love Miss Peacock XOXO
As you very likely know, Friday was a day filled with fun -- our Halloween Parade was a great success -- and -- Kelly looked quite ravishing as a "gothicy princessy witch" behind the wheel of the bus -- our tour took us by the bakery for cookies, lots of "ooohs" and "aaahs" and many photos!!!!
I trust that last night was one of the best ever -- the warm air, gently blowing leaves and quick-moving cloud-cover made for a beautiful, yet "eerie", feel to the evening . . .
Please know that there is a "candy buy-back", today, (Sunday), at the office of Dr. Fawn Rosenberg, (dentist), between approximately 12:00 and 03:00 -- her office is located at 922 Waltham Street in Lexington, and her phone number is 781-861-6008 -- Fawn will donate the candy to our troops, overseas -- Fawn was responsible, as well, for the Unicef boxes distributed, at school, and may be collecting any proceeds -- thank you, and do enjoy the rest of the week-end!!
Love Miss Peacock XOXO
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