Kindergarten Weekly Newsletter
Dear Parents and Guardians,
Special Request & Groundhog Day Learning:
As we approach Groundhog Day, we will dedicate next week to learning about this unique holiday and its significance. Groundhog Day, celebrated on February 2nd, is based on the folklore that if a groundhog emerges from its burrow and sees its shadow due to clear weather, it will retreat back into its burrow, signifying six more weeks of winter. Conversely, if it does not see its shadow due to cloudiness, spring will arrive early.
Groundhogs, also known as woodchucks, are large rodents known for their burrowing habits and are part of the marmot family. This day gives us a wonderful opportunity to integrate science, history, and folklore into our learning.
Groundhog Day Centers: On Friday, we will have Groundhog Day Centers, a series of fun and educational activities focused on animals and shadows. To make this experience as immersive as possible, I kindly ask parents to discuss the concept of Groundhog Day with your children. Sharing a simple story or watching a short video about groundhogs can spark their curiosity and enhance their learning experience.
Additionally, I will be providing each child with a flashlight next Friday to explore shadows, enhancing their understanding of how light and shadows work. This hands-on activity is designed to be both educational and entertaining, allowing children to connect the Groundhog Day tradition with scientific concepts.
We’re excited about the week ahead and the engaging learning experiences planned for our students. Your support in preparing your child for Groundhog Day Centers is greatly appreciated.
We hope you had a wonderful weekend! Here’s what’s happening in our kindergarten class this week and some important dates to remember:
This Week in Kindergarten:
- Writing: We are focusing on using transition words such as “first,” “then,” “next,” and “last” to help our stories flow more smoothly.
- Phonics: Our exploration of blends, digraphs, and word families continues. We use these skills to create new words and strengthen our reading foundation.
- Reading: We’re diving into our “Super Reader Super Powers,” learning various strategies to decode unfamiliar words. Encourage your child to share their new “powers” with you!
- Math: We’re discovering the importance of pairs of 10 and exploring solid shapes. Ask your child about the shapes they’ve learned and why pairs of 10 are crucial in math.
Important Dates:
- January 29: iReady Testing begins at 9:15 am. Please ensure your child arrives on time.
- January 31: Half-day for students. Dismissal details will follow.
- February 2: Groundhog Day Centers. A brief discussion with your child about Groundhog Day beforehand would be appreciated.
- February 5: Please send your child’s 100 collection to celebrate the upcoming 100th Day of School. (More info to come)
- February 7: Global Play Day. Note: A substitute teacher will be present. (More info to come)
- February 8: 100th Day of School! We have special activities planned.
- February 10: iReady testing concludes. Thank you for your support during this period.
- February 14: Valentine’s Day card exchange. Cards should be sent in on or before this date.
- February 14: Valentine’s Day Party from 2:30-3:15 pm. Remember, the party is limited to one hour.
- February 19-24: Mid-Winter Break. Enjoy the time off with your family!
- February 26: Start of Reading Homework. Details will be provided.
- February 27: No School.
- March 1: New field trip date. More information to come.
Reminders:
- Please ensure your child has extra clothes and socks in their backpack if they get wet.
- Next week, we will begin the iReady test. If your child faces any challenges, we will schedule a meeting to discuss the best ways to support their learning.
Thank you for your continuous support and involvement in your child’s education. If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to reach out.