September 29, 2006

September 29, 2006

Dear Families,

We began learning about the alphabet and enjoyed reading the book Chicka Chicka Boom Boom by Bill Martin, Jr. The children learned that there are 26 letters in the alphabet, that letters make words, and that letters have sounds. We made a chart using the first letter of our names, to see what letters had the most first names and which letters had the fewest. We read a lot of alphabet books, too. We played an alphabet freeze game. The kindergartners danced and moved around around until the music stopped. Then they found a letter on the floor close to where they were frozen, picked it up, and told everyone the name of the letter. Mrs. Owens opened a real coconut, and the boys and girls were able to taste it.

This week we worked with counting coconuts. Each child was given a bag with one coconut tree and ten coconuts. The students learned to add more coconuts when they needed a larger number and take a way coconuts when they needed a smaller number. They can use these to practice counting at home.

This week we also began practicing writing names the kindergarten way. Next week we will continue practicing. We will expect them to write their name the kindergarten way on all their papers. Reinforcement at home is greatly appreciated. Remember, if your kindergartner practices writing at home, and they bring the paperwork in, they can earn a sticker.

Next week we will be studying the letter Ll. We will learn to write the lowercase and capital letter, learn the sound, and talk about things that start with the letter Ll. Sharing next week should be one item that begins with the letter Ll.

On Friday, October 6th the students do not have school. The teachers get to attend important meetings. The Friday sharing kids may bring their sharing items any day next week.

Don’t forget about Family Math Night on Thursday, October 5th!

Halloween is fast approaching, and many families are beginning to think about their child’s costume. The elementary has a policy about costumes. We do not allow any blood or weapons with the costumes. Right now the Halloween parties are scheduled for October 31st.

Our kindergarten bake sale is Thursday, October 19th. Please send AT LEAST 6 individually wrapped items. (Examples: 6 individual cookies in baggies, 6 fruit roll ups, 6 Little Debbies, etc.) Kindergartners will be able to purchase items also that day. Each item will cost 25¢.

Don’t forget about October 17th! We will be having our pictures taken on this day. You will receive the order forms soon. Please try to have these forms returned before picture day. On Tuesday, October 17th, the kindergartners need to be here by 8:20. We are usually the first class to have pictures taken, and they come for us at 8:20. If you want your child to change out of the picture clothing, please send another outfit. If you have special instructions concerning hair, jewelry, or outfits, please write us a note with the directions.

One last important date to note is the Christmas program. It will be on December 13th at 1:30 p.m.

Have a great fall weekend!

Ms. Howard, Mrs. Owens, and Mrs. Herink