by Mr. River Eubanks

First Kindergarten Letter with Pictures

Pleasant Lake Kindergarten News

Room 202 – Mr. Eubanks

Dear Families,

Welcome to our very first kindergarten newsletter of the year! What a fantastic start it has been. Your children are adjusting beautifully to the long school days, new routines, and the excitement of making friends. Please know—it’s entirely normal for them to come home tired, cranky, or even quiet at first. Kindergarten is a big adjustment, but with time, their stamina will grow. For now, a good snack, an early bedtime, and lots of encouragement will help. Make sure you check their folders for papers nightly and return the empty folder the next school day.

If you have not turned in the $30 for party and craft money, try to do so before Curriculum Night on September 10.

What We’ve Been Learning

Here’s a peek into our busy week together:

  • Shapes into pictures. We explored how basic shapes can be combined to make pictures. For example, a circle can become the sun, wheels, or even a face! This helps children see patterns in the world around them and sparks creativity in their drawing and writing.
  • Star of the Day: We started our “Star of the Day” tradition. Each child will have a special day where they get to share about themselves. I sent home a calendar so you know when it’s your child’s turn. Please remember to send in your family photo, which will be featured in our class. This activity builds confidence, pride, and a sense of belonging.
  • Letter M: We introduced the letter M. Children practiced identifying it, saying its sound, and brainstorming words that begin with M (e.g., mom, monkey, milk). Next week, we’ll review it and practice writing the letter as well as blending it into words.
  • Books we read: “No, David!” We read No, David! and other books by David Shannon. The children laughed at David’s silly choices, and we had thoughtful discussions about what David could have done differently. This connected perfectly to our own classroom rules and expectations.
  • Calendar & counting We began our daily calendar routine, which introduces days, months, weather, and counting. We also practiced skip counting by 10s. These routines help children develop a sense of numbers and build confidence in their early math skills.
  • Names & scissors skills We practiced writing our names with correct letter formation and neat handwriting. Scissor skills were another focus—we worked on cutting safely and carefully. These fine motor skills are essential for writing, art, and independent classroom work.

Looking Ahead

We are still getting to know one another, but I am already impressed with this class. They are kind, eager to learn, and ready to take on new challenges. I can tell it’s going to be a fantastic year!

Please mark your calendars: Curriculum Night is September 10. This evening will provide us with an opportunity to review what your child will learn in kindergarten, as well as address any questions you may have.

Tips for Home

Here are a few simple ways you can support your child this week:

  • Rest: Kindergarten is a full-day program, so an early bedtime is essential. Children need 10 to 12 hours of sleep at this age.
  • Snacks & hydration: A healthy after-school snack and water help re-energize tired bodies and brains.
  • Name practice: Encourage your child to practice writing their name with only the first letter capitalized. Praise their effort, not just the result.
  • Scissor practice: If you have child scissors at home, let them practice cutting paper strips or simple shapes. This builds hand strength and coordination.
  • Discuss school by asking specific questions, such as “What book did you read today?” or “What game did you play at recess?” rather than “How was school?” to encourage them to share their thoughts.
  • Read together: Snuggle up and enjoy a book at bedtime. Reading aloud builds vocabulary, comprehension, and a love of stories.

Thank you for all you do to support your child’s learning at home. The partnership between school and home makes a big difference, and I’m so grateful to be on this journey with you and your children.

Warmly,

Mr. River Eubanks