Writing Workshop: Learning how to take a position and explain “why” has been a great experience for our Kindergartners. Usually, children are the ones asking why, but in this case, they are the ones who are thinking about that very question and explaining their reason. From ice cream in a cone or bowl, to what kind of pet would you like to have, and their favorite specials class or playground equipment, in each case they had to choose one and explain their reason. I have truly enjoyed reading and hearing about their wonderful reasons why! The next time your child asks you why, be ready to share your thoughtful reason, and don’t hesitate to ask them the same. 
Reading Workshop: This week we have worked on recall and comprehension with the help of our Shape-Go Map. This has also been a great tool to help us think about the lesson a story is trying to tell and teach us about within our fictional stories. We have also practiced making connections between the text to self (how we can personally relate to the story we are reading). I am very proud of the children and their ability to relate and explain. 
Science: We culminated our science learning of living and non-living with a walk to our school pond. It was amazing to see so many creatures living among us. We saw ducks with their ducklings, a water snake, many toads, a variety of birds, and a couple painter turtles. It was a very exciting adventure for us to look and listen to the many beautiful sounds among us that we many times fail to listen and be aware of. The children enjoyed documenting their favorite observations as a scientist.
Take Home Books: Our program has officially ended. Our time seemed to go by so quickly, but it is amazing to look back at the growth each child made during this time of independent reading and practice. A HUGE THANK YOU to the many parent and grandparent volunteers who helped to make this program possible!
Popcorn Words for the Week Were: “play,” “today,” “away,” “up”
Important Information and Reminders:
- Backpack Snack: Please remember to pack a healthy daily snack.
- Library: Please help your child return their book to help with summer inventory.
- Red, White and Blue Day: This Friday, May 26.
- Memorial Day: Monday, May 29 – No school.
- Kindergarten Olympics: Friday morning, June 2.
- Last Day of School: Friday, June 9. Dismissal at 12:15pm.
I wish you all a very nice weekend!
: ) Mrs. Estefan