February 22nd 2010
Dear Red Kangaroo Families,
First Term is moving along quickly and the children are settling in particularly well. The large number of boys this year does change the dynamics of the group. Please do not be alarmed at the noise level of an afternoon in particular. They are actually working well, just a little louder! We have definitely noticed an increase in block construction already- some budding engineers in the making perhaps.
The children have shown an interest in a number of areas which we are encouraging and building upon. They became interested in bull ants as we found a couple wandering close by. These were bravely captured by us (Amanda and Chrys) and observed in the bug catcher. The children were encouraged to use their skills of observation to draw them and learn about the life of an ant. We followed up with stories and information books on ants and insects. Outside they went on a bug walk. Our pre-school lizards have created interest as well so this week we have been discussing the life of a lizard with picture talks and stories.
We have learnt a new song thanks to our bug investigations -‘The Ants Went Marching One By One’.
We would like to extend an invitation to any parents or grandparents who may have a skill such as cooking, craft or music (rumor has it there is a father who plays the tuba!) they would like to share with the group. Just let us know and we would love to welcome you along.
We are using Wednesday and Thursday afternoons with the Red Kangaroos to work on pre-reading and pre-writing activities in particular. Friday afternoon we split into two groups for news. News time encourages children to learn and use the skills of listening to their peers whilst developing their own self esteem as they speak in front of the children. We do not expect that children bring something every week but they may have something of interest to talk about.
Looking forward to the year ahead,
Amanda and Chrys
