Our First Month

  We made it! Everyone did an awesome job completing our first month of school. We have been having so much fun and learning so much. The kids have done well adjusting to being at school and following rules and are beginning to understand the routines and flow to the day. Please continue to encourage them to explore, have fun and get messy as well as listening and having good behavior.

 We are still covering a bit of all about me and apples this will help the kids to understand our field trip this week to the Willow brook apple farm. Its a very small farm and we get to do some very neat things like press cider, pet a pony, see some bees, take a tractor ride and taste some treats. When we return from our field trip we will still be covering fall and apples.

 Picture day is next week! On picture days we don't do any messy activities and if you are very concerned about their clothes send an extra outfit so they can change. We will take an individual photo of each child for our yearbook as well as a class photo all together.

 We are gearing up for our annual jubilee in October our class reps will be putting out messages regarding our game responsibilities and items we will need as well as information on tickets etc. Jubilee is October 9th.

 We are still working on how to get along which is very important. Please practice with your child using their words and talking with others to resolve problems instead of hitting or pushing. We are also working on sharing and taking turns. You can encourage this at home by roleplaying if your child is having issues with sharing like you play with a toy and then when they want it make them practice asking you for that toy don't allow them to just take it from you. Help them to learn the words to use and include please and thank you.

 Here are a few pictures from some classroom fun!

First week!

 We have had a great first week in the owl class! We are exploring our surroundings, learning about each other, and learning how school works. The kiddos have done a great job and some are still working on the transition from being home to being at school and some tears are to be expected. Please keep reassuring them that you will come back, school is fun and that they will have a great day.

 I sent home a few things this week one was a paper asking some questions for you the parents. I know you filled out some packets that are in the student file but this one is a quick reference for me to have and I also like to use them to find things some kids have in common and try to help them build relationships with other children who have similar interests. It also lets me know how to get a hold of you and others in a quick reference kind of way. Turn those in to me as soon as you can. The second was an all about me poster. This is another way to encourage kids to find things in common with others in a visual way. It also helps me get to know them and their family. Please turn in the posters by September 5th. One more thing I need is a family photo this way the kids have a picture of their family in class it makes them feel at home in our room. This picture will remain on the wall all year.

 A few reminders if your child is ill please review the guidelines in the handbook regarding when your child is too sick to be at school. We do wellness checks in the mornings and I hate to have to send friends home, but its best for us all. If your child was sick and is still recovering let me know so that I can keep an eye on them and note any changes in behavior. Also please help me in the mornings by making sure your child washes their hands as soon as they are in class. This and frequent hand washing during the day help us to reduce illness in the class.

  Next Wednesday and Thursday we are having an extra messy art exploration day! Be prepared for paint, water, shaving cream and lots of mess come prepared with clothes that can get messy and extras.

 I have added a poll on the side of the blog page asking if you would be interested in having a closed group facebook page for our class. We would use it to post messages for our class, a few pictures, a way to contact me and class reps etc. I would be the admin and would add in parents only! Pleasde answer the survey and if we have an interest we can work on getting that together.

 Enjoy your first weekend and I will see you all next week!

Our first week of school!

  I am happy to say we are starting school earlier than anticipated! Our restoration company has done an amazing job and school is now ready for us to move back in and start on the 24th! I have a few reminders and some information on how the first week of school looks.

  All about me is our opening theme, I like to spend the first few weeks getting to know your child and all the children in my classes. We do this by exploring what their likes and dislikes are, who is in their family and who they are. There will be a lot of getting to know you games, activities and questions going on in class. This is my opportunity to explore who your children are and what needs and interests we have as a class. In the first two weeks I would also like for each family to send in a picture to class this is for our family wall. Each child will tell us about the people in their family and the picture will be placed on the wall for the remainder of the school year.

  A few reminders

• Please make sure your child has a back pack with a full change of clothing or two for the first days of school. If you can please put those clothes in a Ziploc bag so I can return any wet or dirty clothes home.
•  Make sure your child's bag is labeled with their name it will make it easier for me to know which belongs to your child.
• We get messy at school please do not send your child to school in anything you are afraid to get paint, glue, food, water or anything messy on. I want them to explore freely and not feel like they have to worry about their clothes or shoes.

 A few things to not bring to school are

• Toys from home
• Medicines
• Wipes
• Hand sanitizer
• Lip gloss or chap stick (they like to share it with friends when they bring it)
• Sunscreen (We as teachers are not allowed to apply sunscreen to your child)

Now that we got the business out of the way its time to address nervousness. I know many kids are nervous about school and so are the parents. Please try to reassure your child that things will be great and that school is fun and they are going to have a great time! If your child cries on the first day of school it's OK. Here is a list I borrowed from Ms. Mari to give you some ideas of ways to help.

·         Never bribe or negotiate a “deal” (if you stop crying I’ll give you this…)

·         Never send them home- this sends the message that they can get their own way if they throw a tantrum

·         Speak positively and cheerfully

·         Reassure your child you love them and will be back

·         Stay calm

·         Once you leave, DON’T COME BACK IN.  This makes it very confusing and teaches the child that crying works to get you to come back. 

·         If other children complain about noisy crying say, “Yes, Jimmy is crying because he misses his mom. He needs some time to learn how school works. Let’s show him how much fun ____ is and maybe he will join us.” Then move along to your next activity.

·         Acknowledge the child’s feelings (I know you miss your mom, you’ll see her soon.)

·         Invite the child to join in activities but don’t force them to participate if they are overly distraught.

This was an article I found many years ago that still applies today!  Some children may have no problem being left on their first day of school, but they may have a few tears after a week or two.  Some children from the beginning may have BIG FEELINGS about being left but with care and persistence it will pass and they will get used to the transition soon. 

Please know I am very compassionate with your children and will tell them “I know you are sad/mad, but I know your mom/dad is coming back!”  “Do you need a hug?” 

Also as parent helpers you may be asked to help with these children as well.   Some things to remember:

·         Don’t tell them not to cry, they need to express their feelings and we are here to help them name their feelings and learn to communicate HOW they are feeling.

·         Sit next to them and tell them and offer support by just being there and acknowledging their feelings.

·         Try and get them interested in an activity.

Please know we will love your child and try to make their transition away from you a positive experience.  Please also know if your child is REALLY inconsolable and we have exhausted all of our strategies we will call you!  

With a little love and compassion those that may be reluctant will soon be excited to come to school and have a great time!

 

Now for you I have an acronym I learned from a mentor teacher many years ago its called HELP.

 

Hug- Let your child know you are leaving with a quick hug and a kiss please don't sneak out.

 Encourage- Give them words of encouragement, help them to locate a friend or a teacher.

 Leave- Leave don't linger longer that actually makes it harder.

Pray- Pray for the teachers, the parents working and for your child that they receive the comfort and reassurance they need. I truly appreciate those prayers!

 

Have fun getting ready to come to school next week I'll be working hard setting up our "nest" for all my little owls!

Welcome to the Owl Class 2015

Welcome to my blog new and returning Owl families!

 If you are here you either followed my link from Facebook or you typed in the address from the outline you received at orientation. Either way welcome. I am working to build this blog with more postings, suggestions and class updates as the year progresses.

 Please add yourself as a follower on the side column and please make sure you get added to the school's Facebook page if your not already to get all the latest news and updates!

 Hope to see you all soon!

Marching to spring break

  Yes I am late with this its already March and we are already into the Dr. Seuss study. Days one and two have gone well a few kiddos are familiar with Dr. Seuss thanks to some popular movies that are out as well as the books. They are also enjoying the idea of crazy scenarios and funny words.

  In class we are covering the stories of doctor Seuss we plan to look at Cat in the Hat, Green Eggs and Ham, and a few of the shorter stories (as Dr. Seuss wrote some very long ones as well) Our main story and the theme for our room is One Fish, Two Fish, Red Fish, Blue Fish. Its a silly rhyming story with lots of fun made up creatures and fun pictures. At home you can continue the fun by reading Dr. Seuss stories at home. Local libraries have a good selection and you can sometimes find readings of the stories on Youtube and iTunes. You can also find the movies some are a bit long but can be watched in parts Horton Hears a Who, Cat in the Hat, The Grinch, and The Lorax are all available to see so Dr. Seuss's world is brought to life.

  We are continuing to work on names we have moved from recognition to writing names. I use a Font found online called dot lines and it creates the dots and all the lines you can use this at home as well if your child wants to practice at home. But it has to be fun! It needs to be kept light and interesting because if they feel pressured to write they may reject it. You can make the sheets at home and place them in a sheet protector and use a dry erase marker so you don't end up making multiple copies. The kids are doing awesome with all of this and they are really beginning to enjoy labeling things with their names.

  Some of you have seen that I have been doing little interviews with the kids this is in preparation for progress reports that you will receive in April. A few questions I have asked are what's your first and last name. Its important for your kids to know both names there are a lot of children with similar names so knowing both names is essential. Another question I asked is what are mom and dads names. This is important as well if your child is ever lost or needs help knowing their own name and parents names is very helpful. So you can practice this at home any time and especially review before you go to a large event or gathering place. I still do this with my own kids who are 6 and 9 and as they get older teaching them your cellphone number helps too. The interviews are always fun and I love the answers I get. It's fun to ask kids who now have their own opinions on what they like, don't like and how things in their world operate. It's important that your children can answer questions serious and not so serious when asked.

  After the un-birthday party we head to spring break its a good time to relax a little and get in some fun family time. I always see spring break as a good time to take a fun/educational field trip. I used to love taking my preschoolers to the discovery museums in Rancho Mirage and Hemet. We would go on hikes or to the zoo or something fun every break. We would read a lot! My kids are readers so I always encourage breaks as a great time to get into a good book your children even at age 3/4 can become involved in a longer story Breven and Aubree loved The Magic Tree house stories at that age. I would read a chapter or two at a time and they always got excited about cliffhangers and waiting for that next chapter.

  When we return its a new study and celebrating Spring and all that comes with it. I am excited to finish up our year and see the continued growth as we finish it together!

 Let's have an awesome 2 weeks!

Ms. Charlee

Februrary friendship and love!

 February 3rd already! Its a short month full of love and friendship. There is a lot going on at school so here are a few updates.

 Please remember to check the work calendars online the link is on my blog under work calendars or take a picture on your mobile phone of it to ensure you are at school on your designated work days. If you are unable to work please try and find a sub early there are a few and they get called often. Calendars are up through March.

 This week we have been continuing with space and we read a fun book about aliens and underpants ask your child they can tell you some funny details! Next week we have a short week there is no school Monday February 9th. We will start off the week by celebrating the 100th day of school we will be talking about 100, counting 100 items (by 10's), and we will be doing some fun crafts. Then Thursday and Friday we will celebrate Valentines day. Party sign ups are posted in class and we will be making English muffin pizzas! Our party theme is love bugs so we will have a few crafts about that. If you plan to send valentines with your child please make sure we have one for every child in class there are 17 kids in each class. If candy or treats are a part of your valentine make sure they are nut free for our friends with allergies. I will also not allow the kids to open goodies and treats at school they will be sent home so you can check things first. Children will pass out their own cards at a designated time.

 February 16th is another holiday and we return for another short week and we may continue with space or we may move on not quite sure yet. Our class will continue working on name recognition and name writing for those interested. There has been a huge interest in writing names and its very exciting. If you want to practice writing at home please help your child by showing them the name written as it would appear starting with a capital letter then followed by lowercase letters. Its harder to recognize their name when its written in all capitals because that's not how it appears on paper. 90% of what we read is in lowercase so that's why the Zoophonics program focuses so much on lower case letters. Capitals will come later as they go through the Zoophonics program. We have also been working a lot on kindness in class. From kind words, to gentile hands, and taking turns and sharing. We will continue to practice and talk about these skills as the year continues on.

  We bumped circle time up to first thing in the morning and it has been working much better for us. More kids are engaging and we are getting a lot more participation.

 Looking ahead March is when we celebrate Dr. Seuss and all he has brought to literature and wrapping it up with our 3rd annual un-birthday party. More details on that will be coming soon! Then we head to spring break! I know its crazy we are already talking about spring break.

 As always if you have any questions feel free to email me or call me at school.

Looking forward to another great month.

Ms. Charlee

Space

 Welcome back families! I hope everyone had a great Christmas break and that everyone is ready to return to class this week.

 When we return our topic is space. So think astronauts, planets, stars and moons. We will talk about these things when we return and see what the kids really take an interest in. This week is a transition week as we all return to the routine of school and we will be working on continuing to follow the rules and routines of school after our 2 week break. Encourage good listening and being a good friend.

 This month I want to work on name recognition. Not necessarily knowing how to spell their name but being able to find it in the world. So at home encourage your child to look for letters that are in their name and the order they go in. Find opportunities for them to find their name on things. Here I will be working on a matching game of faces to names, making name rockets, and practicing the letters in zoo phonics that make their name.

 We will get back to our regular routine of calendar and looking at patterns the simple AB pattern is our first goal for them to recognize what is a pattern and how its made. We will practice this in class with colors and items.

 Since we are covering space what better way to do that than to make a rocket. So I will be needing some scrap items for the kids to make their own rockets. I need some foam stickers in basic shapes, plastic solo cups, things to make cones for the tops. If you have any of these items at home that your willing to donate please bring them in. I am also in need of TP, and paper towel tubes. We will be making simple rockets with them this first week but we may need more to build taller more complicated things.

 This week Wednesday the 7th and Thursday the 8th is a parent meeting right after drop off with Ms. Tamara. The 19th is Martin Luther King day and we will be off and we are working on scheduling a field trip.

 I will update the blog as we go along please watch facebook for any parent power hours and special requests!

See you this week!

Christmas Time Already??? !!!

  Wow it's practically December and almost Christmas already I feel like we didn't even get through fall! I know this is a very busy time for all of us adults and kids as well. I am going to try my best to breathe deeply and enjoy this season with my family and with our class. I am so excited to be inside the classroom this year and to share the joy and excitement that this time brings for your children as I get to watch them wonder, explore, imagine and create holiday memories at home and at school.

 We return to school Monday December 1st for 3 weeks which the school has decided to go with a general Holiday theme. Each teacher and class is allowed to cover what ever they choose in the winter holiday area. I have chosen to start off with Gingerbread man I love the story, I love that there are several versions of the story and even new fun twists on the story as well. I love the smell of the spices in gingerbread and the look of each individual cookie and that each is different, and unique like our children. On the second or third week of the holiday theme I will need one parent from MWF and One TTH parent to bake some gingerbread children for us to decorate. I can provide the cookie cutters, and I am offering power hours. Please ask me for details we will do this on a day when its just our class after free choice it will be something we do as a class.

 Wednesday December 3rd is the ugly sweater night out and Bunco game at the Highland Springs Resort. Its a fun evening out with a dessert bar, Bunco and conversation. If you are available that evening please RSVP and join us this is one of the few adult only things we do at IPS and its fun to bond with others when the kids are not running around!

 We will also cover a little bit of Hanukah. We will play dradle and talk about the lights and menorah. We will also share the story of  the birth of Jesus and the manger. This will allow us to explore other holiday traditions as well. My family is Hawaiian, Portuguese, Scottish and Swedish so we celebrate those customs. The children in our school are from so many cultures and religions  if there is something you wish to share with our students please feel free to come to me and we can set up a center the day that you work doing an activity from your culture as well. I want our class to learn, absorb and participate in a diverse environment so anything you would like to share is welcome! Please shoot me an email or talk with me in person and I can get plans and arrangements made.

 So the first week back we will be transitioning to the holiday theme with some gingerbread man stories, counting, and other fun activities to ease them back into the routine. It is important for us to maintain as much routine during the holiday time as possible. I will be working on maintaining as much consistency as possible. Please help me to do this by reminding your child of the school rules, and being a good listener as we return this week, and in the weeks ahead. Its important that we encourage them to do well at school and use positive reinforcement at school and at home.

 When we return you may notice its getting cooler this is a great time to check the extra clothing in your child's backpack to ensure its weather appropriate. IPS doesn't keep a lot of extra clothing on hand and even in chilly weather we still play outside sometimes with water, we still paint and get messy so those extra clothes come in handy. I would suggest also taking a jacket to school each day. Even if they fight it a cheap hoodie in a backpack comes in handy some days and we can put it on as needed. Try to make sure your child's name is on their coats, hats, or any other clothing they use at school so just in case you leave it I can return it quickly. No matter how cold it is we find it valuable to play outside so please consider that when dressing for school. I know sometimes its hard to convince them otherwise. I found with my daughter she said to me recently princesses don't wear pants. I have told her they do but under the dress and I found some cute leggings that go fantastically under dresses. They even make fleece lined tights. For boys I let them know that even super hero's wear jackets and ninja turtles would be nothing without a warm shell.

 Cold weather is also a time for us to remind families of the sick child policy we have at IPS. We really encourage you to keep your child home if they are sick and the same goes for parents who work in class. I follow the same rules as the kids in regards to illness usually for me my issues are all allergies and sinus problems. If your child has had fever, diarrhea, vomiting, or any documented contagious illness within the last 48 hours it is recommended that you keep them home. Illnesses that are considered contagious are hand foot and mouth (that illness requires a longer time out of the classroom) strep, pink eye, chicken pox, rotavirus, croup, lice, RSV, Scarlet Fever, Impetigo, whooping cough, and some others. If you have questions as to when they come back the CDC, your doctor and the school staff can help answer those questions also be aware that some illnesses require that your child stay home more than 48 hours please respect these rules. If in doubt keep them home! I am trying my best to fight the spread of illness with good hand washing, cleaning high traffic areas and good self care. You parents are a part of that too when we clean the classroom remembering to hit all those regularly touched surfaces, reminding kids to cover coughs and sneezes and helping with hand washing. Also at home helping to remember what they are taught at school will help them to bring less home and these things are good life lessons.

  Work calendars are ready and available on the blog under the work calendars tab. Please remember it is your responsibility to check either the calendar on here or in the office to make sure you have to correct work days. If  you are unable to work please try to find a trade or a sub. Failure to find a sub or no-show for a work day results in fines (which are never fun) There is a sub list available in the office. If you or your child are sick please try your best to get a sub coming to school sick just spreads it around more and we don't want to be sick for the holidays.

  We will be getting ready for our holiday party as well. On Thursday December 18th and Friday December 19th we will wrap up and head out for break with a party. Our class will sing and dance then we will enjoy a snack and then play games and give gifts at our first Christmas party. I will provide details soon of our scheduled time to sing. As always families are welcome this will be a pajama party with breakfast. Yes I said pajama party we will  wear PJ'S to school and be comfy all day even I am wearing PJ'S! Please make sure they are comfortable and school appropriate PJ'S and if needed leggings go great under those super cute night dresses. I am asking that each child bring to school with them a book wrapped and tagged to a friend from your child's name on party day so we can do a Christmas Gift book exchange, that will take place during the party. I am asking as I do on all party days that if  you have additional gifts or goodies to give please have them ready to distribute to cubbies that day. I will give you more details on all these things as we as a staff get them finalized.

 Our school participates in the Yucaipa, and Beaumont Christmas parades. Yucaipa is a day time parade with a theme and Beaumont's is a night parade with lights. Details of those will come in the Friday blast. I personally always attend the Beaumont parade with my daughter who rides the IPS float with me. Its a fun evening ride.

 With all this I want our children to think of others at this time. How can a 3yr do this you ask? Well we have 2 ways this year. One is to donate food that will go to stock local food pantry's they can help you gather items and turn them in to the office. Talk with them about how not every family has food and we are giving this to help others. Let them know that the Bible says we need to share what we are blessed with. Tie it in to your own family holiday traditions as well. In our class we will have a card making station as well. I used to work in the probation system, foster care and retirement care settings and the holidays are particularly rough on those groups of people. I remember working in the retirement  home how some residents never got many holiday cards or crafts and how it would make someone's day to know that they received something from someone. So we are partnering with The Lakes at Banning to make cards and crafts that will be distributed to those who may not get them. I will be telling the kids that these are going to a place where people may not get cards and how their simple card with some art will brighten someone's day and make them happy. With that said please encourage your child to make one, and let them know that you are excited to hear what they did. I will be delivering these cards once a week. I am also in need of supplies. Craft items, stickers, ribbon and various card decorations and myself and other parents will be helping the children to write messages in the cards.

 Wow this is a lot of stuff! Please continue to check Facebook, the Friday Blast and teacher blogs for the latest updates! And if in doubt ask questions we are here to help.

Zoophonics parties and school updates

  Wow its almost Halloween! I can't believe how fast things are moving along. This week Thursday and Friday are out Zoophonics parties. Your child has the chance to dress up as a Zoophonics character for school that day and enjoy some activities and a party in class. The costume doesn't have to be elaborate ears and a tail or a hat that looks like a character are all they need. Wal-Mart had cat and bat hats in the $1 section and ears and tails are easy to find. You can always do a homemade outfit as well get creative. Don't forget parents working that day are having a contest for best costume as well. Party days are very exciting and for most of you this is your child's first class party. Please remember that its a regular school day as well so that's why our party list was created. If you would like to give an additional treat to the kids in class please have them ready to distribute to cubbies at the end of the day so that we limit the candy and sugar intake at school. We will also be using no paint, water or super messy activities on party day so we don't ruin costumes.

  We are now headed into November our study will be on squash and gourds. Did you know that most squash are considered fruit because they contain seeds? I didn't until researching for this study. We will be exploring these items, what we can do with them and lead our way towards what they have to do with Thanksgiving. If you have any or find any cool squash or gourds please bring them to school. After Halloween is a great time to get those items on mark down.

 Speaking of markdown if anyone finds any dress-up items or old costumes that would be dramatic play area appropriate please consider donating them to IPS for our dress up areas.

  We are discussing how to keep healthy during cold and flu season in class. I have gone over with the kids how to cough into the elbow to lessen the spread of those germs, hand washing and using tissues. Please make sure to practice these things with your child at home as well. If we can start good habits now they will not only help our kids in class get sick less, but also be good habits as they grow up. We do need to make sure we have lots of tissue in class for all the runny noses so if a few families could donate a box every now and then that would be very helpful. Also when your child washes their hands please encourage them to rub their hands with soap before washing it all away under the water. I will continue to work on keeping the classroom clean, and encouraging good healthy habits in class. If your child is sick please follow the schools sick policy and keep them home.

 Another thing to help keep everyone safe is by obeying the parking lot speed limits. The speed limit in the parking lot is 10MPH. Remember it only takes one second for a child to run out from behind a car or out into the lot and get hit.

It's Fall! Eventhough it's still 90+ degrees outside!

  Yes you read that correctly it's fall! Unfortunately in So. Cal we don't have a fall we have continued heat. Sorry families for not updating the blog for a few weeks life in our room and at my house have been very busy. I have a few updates and some things to share.

  First off your children are doing great and are getting down the routines and rules of our school and they are all adjusting to each other and me. Keep encouraging your child to follow the school rules and routines and let then know when you think they are doing a good job.

  Everyone who participates on the rug during Zoophonics has really learned the sound and signals. For more information on Zoophonics you can find them online and some youtube videos so you can practice at home. It's one sound to one signal for example allie the alligator says a with one opening and closing of the hands to make an alligator mouth Our class even did well when I mixed up the cards this week. Speaking of Zoophonics Halloween is just around the corner and that means Zoophonics character dress up day is coming. Every year before Halloween we have our school wide Zoophonics day and party. We ask that those who want to dress up as their favorite Zoophonics animal. For example I am Zeke the Zebra for my animal. It doesn't have to be a fancy costume even just ears and an animal tail are fun so start thinking of those great ideas now to beat the rush before Halloween.

  We have been working on numbers in class as well I have tested a few kiddos on the numbers 1-5 that's our focus right now. We are also working on the concept of subitizing which means connecting the number in written form to the number of objects. For example 5 ***** that's what subitizing is. You can practice this as well at home and also counting wrote counting is an important skill as well. This can be fun games like with play dough you can make balls and count them or even make the forms of the numbers with play dough. For wrote counting count steps when you walk or just counting out loud. You can also allow kids to help you cook by counting the scoops you use or the number of times you stir in the bowl. Learning math concepts can be fun!

  This last week of all about me we will be focusing on family and pets. I am asking this week if your child can bring in a family photo to share with the class. This is a great time for them to practice speaking in front of others on a subject they know a lot about. This will translate to elementary learning as well with common core kids are asked to present their work often in class so the ability to feel comfortable talking in front of their peers is important. We will do things like this off and on so they begin to feel comfortable speaking to others and answering questions in class.

  We are wrapping up our study of all about me and we are working on a theme for our next study but in the coming weeks we will talk a little bit about pumpkins and fall of course in our small group time, and because I love eating pumpkin so much we may do a little cooking and tasting too!

  Since we talked about tasting please remember that snack is a small snack. I know a lot of kids are not breakfast fans so come snack time they are very hungry but we do give the kids correct preschool sized portions of food for snack and we serve water to drink. If your child doesn't choose to eat snack we don't keep alternative snacks nor do we allow them to eat snacks from home. Encourage your child as best you can to eat breakfast even if its something small and encourage them to try some of the new foods they encounter at snack. Remember it takes 50 exposures to a new food before a child can truly decide if they like it, so if you keep trying I will too. As for a breakfast a few easy fast ideas you can try are smoothies, breakfast sandwiches, leftover dinner (I do this sometimes at home) my kids love a grilled ham and cheese some mornings more than they would cereal. Think outside of the box some kids just like different foods in the morning.

  Jubilee is coming up and our game booths are looking a little under staffed. This event and others like it work on what we call parent power! If every family puts in an hour we can make sure our 3 booths are manned all night and the kids will have a great time. If child care is worry see if another family will help watch your child while you work then you do the same for them. We are only asking for an hour and parents who work the booth get a parent power hour for each hour they work. You can work the booth, a spouse can, an older teen (who is responsible) can, grandma can, auntie, etc. Please see the sign up sheets and choose something you can help with this week! Anyone donating items please have those into the office by next Friday so that they can be counted and set up for distribution. You can purchase jubilee tickets and wristbands in the office as well as meal tickets. Meals are pre-sale only so if you want a yummy dinner option please purchase those tickets before the event.

  I think I covered everything! I want to thank all the parents working in class for all your hard work and efforts over the past weeks without you our classroom wouldn't run. Enjoy another hot weekend ahead and I will see everyone soon!

September

  We made it through the first 3 weeks of school! And everyone has done great. Thank you to all the parents working the first few weeks it isn't always easy those first few weeks, but with all your hard work we made it. I have enjoyed getting to know your children and I hope to gain more knowledge as we go on.

  Now that we are all more comfortable at school we will be adding activities and things as we go along. We have started our Zoophonics program which is what we use at IPS to teach the letters and sounds for more information on the program you can check the company's web page and videos for all the sound and signal cues can be found on youtube! Each letter is lower case, and each one has an animal which is the card we use at this point in the year, and one signal which is the hand or body motions. These are fun to practice at home. Our first letter this week is a for Ally Alligator, next week we move on to Bubba Bear and his sound we will go through the whole alphabet daily and each week there will be a focus on one letter and character.

 We are also working on color recognition most of our class knows all their colors! So now we can find other objects in those colors! We will also start on some number games and counting. We are also learning new songs as we go along.

  Our topic is still all about me as we continue to get to know each other. We will also begin to pull a little focus towards apples as we get ready for our first field trip this month. September 18th and 19th we will be headed to Willowbrook  apple farm. The tour is short and very appropriate for preschool we even get to press cider! On field trip days families meet at the location, participate in the tour with their child and then when its done its your choice when to go. The school is closed on field trip days and there is no lunch bunch. More information will be in the Friday Blast very soon.

   In the Owl room we are working a lot on social/emotional skills of being in school. We are working on sharing, taking turns, and not hurting others with our words, hands or bodies. We are also working on remembering to go potty. So please help me by just giving your little ones a reminder here and there as to how we can get a long, and share. We are doing great with bathroom reminders and I think everyone is getting in the routine of using the bathroom at school.

   Parents when you help in class its a great time for you to see up close and personal how your child is learning. Please remember on your work days you need to be in class by 8:15am please don't come too early teachers are still preparing for the day and its hard with little ones here before we are ready. Please plan to stay on work days until 12:15 so that you can finish your jobs and things are all clean. You all are doing an awesome job with the cleaning and our room has been great!


   Please remember to check your emails for the Friday Blast and any other information coming from the office.

Welcome to Preschool

  The day before school starts is always an exciting day for teachers, parents and kids. I am excited and to be honest a little nervous, I get to meet and work with 34 new kids! and 34 new sets of parents and grandparents.

  Getting ready for school includes a lot of things first off we want everyone to feel comfortable talk with your child about starting school and allow them to express their fears and their excitement with you. Reassure them as needed that you always come back and that school is a fun welcoming place to be. Remember to send your child to school daily with a backpack and inside that backpack please have a full change of clothing (shirt, bottom, underwear, socks, shoes, etc.) in a ziplock bag. Please try to label your child's items as best you can it helps the teachers and parents make sure everyone goes home with the correct items. The cubbies at this time are marked with names pictures will be added once I get everyone's picture taken.

 I have a lot of fun planned for this week but we are going to take it easy and go with the flow. We are going to use this week to get to know each other and learn about how preschool runs and what our expectations are. Be ready to play! We are going to use play dough, paint, art supplies, and lots more this week. I am going to be taking dictations and asking a lot of questions this week in an effort to get to know your child and these sheets will be kept and I will ask the same questions at the end of the year to see what has changed from the start of the year. Our theme for this time is all about me.

  If you are working this week be prepared to go with the flow and make changes to our plans as needed. Relax, be yourself, and have fun while working with the kids. Remember this is your chance to play too!

 Are you looking to get some power hours? I have a few projects that I need done to help our room be the fun space it needs to be.

1. I need some crate seats made. I have the instructions and I believe some of the materials on hand.
2. Know how to sew? I am looking to have a few things made for our library area. Some small pillows and some bean bags.

I will announce opportunities for power hours on face book and on this blog. Every family has 4 power hours per year that need to be completed and these tasks can take care of some of these hours.

Let's have a great first week and I look forward to meeting and working with all of you and your children.

Welcome Back

  Welcome back to school! I hope everyone had a good two weeks off and is ready to return to class on the 31st and 1st. We return to school with a few changes I will now be teaching the MWF Owls as well as the TTH owls. I am ready to continue working with families in both classes and I hope this transition is smooth for our MWF families.While I am sad that Ms. Tara is no longer teaching I am happy that I was chosen to carry on with her class in the Owl room. On MWF we will be having one classroom outside each week so that there is a teacher covering outside as well as still keeping the options open (I hope the weather continues to cooperate) So when you arrive to class on MWF some of the science and art activities will take place outside the first week and then rotate through each class as we progress so it will go Orange Owls, Blue Turtles and Green Dragonflies in that order then back again each week. If you have any questions please feel free to ask.

 Our theme is nature when we return so I am excited to brainstorm with the kids what they think and know about nature and what they want to study in this unit. We will be hatching some silkworms, and looking at life cycles, we may discuss weather and things that come with changes in weather, maybe some plants and planting. I am not sure where we will go but I am excited to go there with everyone.

 We will also be getting ready for Easter and discussing eggs and what comes from eggs soon. Please begin to think about our Easter egg hunt. Each year families bring 10 eggs each filled with toys, stickers, tattoos, or a little candy and each child then gets to take home 10 eggs its a fun Easter tradition.

 Please enjoy the rest of spring break and I can't wait to see everyone again when we return!

Ms. Charlee

Switching Gears

  As some of you know we are switch gears over from boxes to transportation. We are excited to be exploring different areas of transportation in our free choice center time, and in our classroom we will extend that theme and also add in a little about community helpers.

  This week I will introduce the share bag on Tuesday, and we will be talking a lot about making good choices in our room. We will be working on some simple class rules like Be Kind, and Be Safe. We will be exploring catapults in science so I am hoping the kids will pick up some new vocabulary like fulcrum, pivot point and catapult. We will also speaking with the children about what they want to be when they grow up.

  We have a field trip coming up on February 6th to the fire memories museum in Banning. I have never been to this location so I am excited to see the different things related to this fire station. I look forward to seeing a lot of our class there for a fun experience. On field trip days please note that school is closed.

  We are celebrating the 100th day of school on Tuesday with a few fun activities related to the number 100. Valentines day is coming and I plan to have a party list posted by the February 1st. The children can bring valentines to class on February 13th but we ask that if you choose to bring them in make sure you include everyone in class we have 18 students. We are asking that instead of student names you write "to my friend" that way they can pass out their own valentines to the kids in class. We will be using tissue boxes as our "mail boxes" So please continue to bring in those square tissue boxes. As with every party parents are always welcome to attend and participate in the festivities.

  We are really working hard in class on re direction. When your working in class its our goal to let the children know when they are not making a good choice and to re direct them to another activity or center. I will be helping with that but I need parent support in class as well to help. It is ok for you let a child know that they are not making a good choice or talk with them about good choices and if they are continuing to make a bad choice it is ok to help them to find another center or activity to participate in.

 On my wish list are a few items we are collecting for activities, and classroom projects and upkeep.
As always if you have any questions please feel free to send me an email to charlee.ips@gmail.com

Have a great weekend and see you on Tuesday!

Ms. Charlee

Our First Week

 We made it through our first week together and if I do say so myself the children are adjusting well to the new teacher and new routine. I want to thank all the parents who have worked this first week for being flexible and understanding as we transition together. I have truly enjoyed working with all of you and your children and I look forward to working with the rest of the class parents as the weeks progress.

 This next week we will be working on really getting small group centers going Tara and I have come up with some great plans for the week. Including a class story, creating a book, some new and fun art and making a treasure box. I also plan to re-introduce the share bag this week with me being the first one to share something I will bring in. For share bag to be successful I am asking that the children only place one item in the bag so that it doesn't take over all our circle time which I will tell them on Tuesday when we are back together again. So help your child to think of one special item to place in the share bag something that they love or means something to them and help them to prepare to talk about that item. What makes it special? Why is it their favorite item? Its asking those questions that get them thinking and turn those gears.

  There are a few things on the wish list tab these are items that we will be using for projects in class in the coming days and weeks so if you can bring in an item or two that would be greatly appreciated.

 We are getting ready to think about Valentines day in the next few weeks (I know it was just New Years!) we will have a class party and I plan to get a list up by February 1st and a list of all the children's names for you as well if you want to start writing out Valentines. As always parents are welcome on party day's.

 Enjoy the rest of our 3 day weekend and I will see everyone tomorrow morning.

Ms. Charlee

Fall is upon us

 October is here! I can't believe how fast this year has gone by. With the beginning of fall comes some fun things and lots of changes at school and at home. Our study topic at this time is trees and unfortunately we have a lack of trees in the play yard but my goal is to find some fun tree related items for us to play with outside.

 Another thing that has changed is the weather. Its been a bit windy and chilly some mornings and this is the time of year when we need to start making some changes in the morning routine to include jackets in our wardrobe. When my daughter was a student we would send her to school each day rather she wanted it or not with a jacket either worn on her body or in her backpack. I would suggest you try to do the same. The weather can be a bit unpredictable at times and some days it's warm and sunny when you leave home but chilly and windy at school. Unless the winds are just way too high to manage or its below freezing we play outside every day and its best to be prepared. Also we will continue to have outdoor gooey and water bins. The same goes for parents working in the classrooms you never know when you may end up with an outdoor board. Also now is a good time to check your child's spare clothing inside the backpack to make sure its weather appropriate. We try our best to make sure everyone takes in their jackets or sweaters when they go in but sometimes I miss one or two please try to put your child's name or initials on their jackets.

 This week October 7th-11th is fire safety week. We will have our monthly fire drill and play some fun stop drop and roll games outside. I will also start making use of our larger sensory bins for some messy sensory items and fun.

 Our annual jubilee is Friday October 11th it will be a fun night with carnival style games, foods and fun. We look forward to seeing everyone. Breakfast with Ms. Tiffany is this week and that's your chance to sign up for work days in November, December and maybe January if I am correct. Remember if you don't sign up your work days will be assigned to you. Our first maintenance day is on October 12th and a big thank you in advance to those working I know there are a lot of various outdoor tasks to be done and I appreciate your time and efforts. October 30th and 31st are our in class harvest parties. I can't wait to see everyone dressed up this year our theme is zoo phonics characters! I bet you all can guess who I will be :) for a list of zoo phonics characters you can ask your child or any teacher we know all of our zoo phonics friends very well.

 If you see the teachers walking around with ipad's and taking lots of pictures and sound clips don't be alarmed we are now using a new portfolio system that uses the ipad's as a means of getting developmental milestones and making a comprehensive portfolio of your child's time with us at IPS. I have to say I am pretty excited to be learning this system and putting it to its full use and intention soon.

 I have a few requests for some up coming projects I am looking for toilet paper and paper towel cardboard rolls, and I would love to borrow a soccer goal for a week (the portable kind like they use at AYSO if you have one) I am also in need of some more hot wheels or matchbox cars (they seem to be getting taken home or buried deep in the sand) if you have an older child who has moved on from hot wheels ask them if they would be interested in donating them to the preschool I know they will get a lot of use!

 Have a great week everyone and I can't wait to see you at school!

Update

 Hello IPS families! I wanted to give you all little update on what's happening with me and how surgery went. The surgery went well and they actually found less than they had expected! They removed what needed to be removed and thank God it was not cancer! I came home the same day and my recovery has gone faster that we had initially anticipated. I am released to return to work next week. We are working on a plan for me to be re-integrated into the school with all of our kids and families new and old. I am super excited to get back to school and do what I love.

 I want to thank all the families who brought us delicious dinners while I was healing. It was a big help to not have to worry about what was for dinner and who would cook it for 2 weeks! It was a great blessing. That is one great thing about being a part of a co-op not only are we helping each other at school but we help each other in life. It's like being a part of a second family and IPS is my preschool family.

 Also thank you to everyone who said a prayer, sent a Facebook message or post, sent a text or any other support. Its very meaningful to know you thought about me. Also my fellow teachers who all prayed for me before I left and while I was gone, and continued to check on me while I was home.

 I also want to send a big thank you Ms. Tamara who filled in for me. She did an amazing job of setting up outside, making lesson plans, cleaning the yard and integrating the new areas of the playground. I know being outside all day and working in the heat is not easy and the outdoor teacher position is not a traditional classroom setting and she has stepped in and done an amazing job in my absence. I couldn't have asked for a better substitute teacher.

 I will be seeing you all very soon and meeting our new families in person very soon.

Not so good news

  I have some not so good news to report to everyone. While it has been great to see everyone I have to tell you I will not be in school the first 4-8 weeks. During summer vacation after my tonsillectomy I had some pain and went to see the doctor. After an ultrasound and some blood tests they found I have a growth between the size of a lime and a small orange on my ovary. I have to have surgery to remove the ovary, and a possible hysterectomy.

  While I am gone outside will still be open and there will be a short term sub working for me. I have plans to visit as many times as I can while recovering, that way I can meet the new children so that when I come back I am not a total stranger.  I can also see the returning students and families as well. I will also be writing all the lesson plans and helping to set up for the first weeks of school. I will also remain available through email, blogger and Facebook.

  I know that God has a plan for what's going on. I am hoping its a quick and easy process and I'll be back in 4 weeks ready to go and play (which I miss so much) I will miss everyone and I will be thinking about IPS while I am out.

The first days of school.

  It has been great meeting all of our new students and parents joining our school this year I hope your enjoying getting to meet everyone, and getting familiar with our school. As for our returning families it was great seeing you again and seeing how much the kids have grown over the summer.

 Just wanted to give you an idea of what the outside will be like as you start off the school year. We play outside every day unless its pouring rain! With that said when school starts its usually pretty hot so please send your child in clothes that will keep them comfortable. Also sunscreen, we are not able to put sunscreen on your child so please put it on them before you get to school in the morning. When its hot we usually have water play, it may be in a sensory bin, it may be a hose run in the sand box or a water game. Please make sure your child has an extra pair of clothing in their backpack if they get too wet to stay in them. I would also suggest that shoes be easy for your child to take on and off, we allow the children to play outside barefoot (except on the bikes of course.) It would help the teacher and parent helpers if you could mark their shoes and socks with initials or their first name. The same goes for jackets in the winter time. We do encourage the kids to drink plenty of water and watch to see if anyone is getting too hot and we help those that need reminders.

  The children also come outside for snack time so please make sure we know about any special dietary needs, food allergies, and such before school starts. We do post a list of these needs in the kitchen and a copy is outside as well. I am very well aware and watch very carefully the students with allergies and sensitivities my daughter has a dairy protein, casein, and lactose sensitivity so I completely understand.

  When you arrive on your child's first day of school I know it can be a bit emotional rather its your first child or last some of us get a bit teary. I know it can be tough but fight back those tears it makes the kids a bit nervous to see a parent cry. I usually hold it in then have a good cry in my car afterward. Show your child that you are confident in them and in the school that you chose.

  Before school starts its a good idea to set up a morning routine, kids like structure and knowing what comes next gives them a sense of security. Let them know a few days before what the first day of school will look like if your child is a visual learner maybe make a sheet with pictures. In my house we have a picture and time for both of my children since I have one that can read a clock. Ours is pretty simple wake up, eat breakfast, get dressed, brush teeth, grab backpacks, go to school. It has helped my house run pretty smoothly in the mornings, also having backpacks, lunches, and clothes picked out and ready makes the morning run smooth.

  For the end of the day try and let your child know who is picking them up, and as we tell them parents always come back. Check their cubby daily we send home notes, artwork, book orders and all in the cubby. When you get home ask them about their day. Its always fun to get their take on how the day was and they are very proud of any art, writing or thing they have made. Even if they didn't have anything to bring home and show you I promise they learned a lot! And they will have something to say.

  If you ever have a question about the things we do, why we do them and how please feel free to ask any teacher any time. We have spent a lot of time studying child development, and working with children and we love to share what we know. We also have all the recipes for any of the things we make at school like slime, oobleck, and play dough. We also take suggestions. No one knows your child better than you do so any thing you can tell us is always helpful.

  I hope you and your child are as excited for preschool as we are to have you with us this year.

New School Year

 Wow time flies when your busy. I can't believe the 2013-2014 school year is about to start, and I am about to start my second year as the outdoor teacher at Inland Preschool. For those of you who are new to our preschool welcome! I can't wait to meet you and your family. For those of you returning I can't wait to see you and hear all about your summer.

 For new families let me give you a brief introduction. My name is Ms. Charlee and I am 33 years old, I have been married to my husband Bradley for almost 11 years and together we have 2 children and one very spoiled dog. I graduated from MSJC in 2005 with 2 Associate degrees one in Sociology and the other in Humanities, with a concentration on Early Childhood Education. I was a stay at home mom for 6 years when I first came to Inland Preschool as a parent helper in 2011. Shortly after joining as a parent I knew I wanted to work at IPS and finished up my parent work hours and worked as a parent sub until I was offered a job as a part time teacher's aide and substitute teacher in 2012. In the fall of 2012 I was offered to become the outdoor teacher in a unique position at IPS which I took without hesitation. Today I work at IPS, I take care of my 2 children Breven(8) and Aubree(5) and all the after school and extra curricular activities, I cycle, knit, read and work at the local Jazzercise 2 nights a week. I also teach early childhood classes at my church on Sunday's as well.

 As I said earlier my job is a unique position. I mean how many schools do you know that treat outdoors as a classroom and as an important part of education not just a place to have recess? And that's how I see it the outdoors are not just a great place to have fun but a great place to learn and explore all areas of learning in a different environment. How cool is it to read a book out in the grass? How fun is it to kick a ball in an open field? How exciting is it to explore science as you hunt for bugs in a garden? How interesting is it to explore how many cups are in a gallon with a tub of water and a measuring cup with no worries about what's spilled? And that's just some examples of what we do outside. Our unique approach to play based curriculum allows the children to explore all areas of learning in the environment that they enjoy most be it in the traditional classroom setting or in the back yard of our preschool.

 I have taken to calling the outdoor space the back yard because it sounds fun! In spring of last year our back yard was expanded to include a very large grass space that was needed and very much appreciated by myself, the staff and the children of IPS just having more room to run was an amazing blessing that our school was able to get thanks to some very hard working parents and board members. Now that we have had that space for some time now it's time to use it to its fullest potential and that is my plan for this school year. To put more activities to stimulate learning outside for everyone to enjoy. There are also some plans to renovate and make some changes to some of the existing areas of the back yard as well. So come back to my blog to see what's new and what's next taking place in the back yard.

 August 2nd is our meet and greet day I can't wait to meet all the new students and see all our returning students its been a long summer and I have missed all the kids. Enjoy the last day's of summer break and I hope to see everyone soon!